dioscorea villosa

wild yam

wild yam

Quite a useful plant. Vine with alternating leaves, which have very prominent veins which run lengthwise from the center top of the heart shape out into a fan pattern. Root runs horizontal underground. Small greenish yellow flowers droop is clusters (male) and droopy spike heads (female). The thick parts of the root (tuber) is the part you want. Most steroid hormones were originally derived from yams. Provides building blocks for progesterone. Used to help all kinds of female problems, like painful menses, PMS, menopause, hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes and vaginal dryness. Wild yam also strengthens the adrenal glands, which assists with hormone balance. Antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, vasodilator Supports the growth of beneficial intestinal flora. Source of phytoestrogens to prevent bone loss. Components from the root used to treat asthma, arthritis, eczema, colic, gastrointestinal & digestive issues like irritable bowel, spasms, rheumatism, menopause, sexual issues, labor pains, morning sickness, impotence, prostate, high blood pressure, migraines, bursitis, dermatitis, bites, stings, rashes. But wait, there’s more... it’s also used to help the liver and endocrine system. Root tea is easy way of taking it.