Evidence supporting the use of: Dioscorea
For the body system: Breasts

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Dioscorea, commonly known as wild yam, has a long history of traditional use in various cultures for women's health, including as a supposed support for the breasts and reproductive system. The root contains compounds called diosgenin, which is a phytoestrogen—a plant-derived substance that can mimic some effects of estrogen in the body. Historically, wild yam has been included in folk remedies and some herbal formulas intended to promote breast health or even enhance breast size, largely based on the belief that its phytoestrogenic properties could influence breast tissue.

However, scientific evidence for these claims is minimal. While diosgenin can be chemically converted into steroid hormones in a laboratory, the human body is not capable of this conversion after ingestion. Clinical studies demonstrating that Dioscorea or its extracts have a direct, significant effect on breast tissue or breast health in humans are lacking. Most modern herbal supplements marketed for breast support rely on anecdotal reports and historical precedent rather than robust clinical evidence. Therefore, its use for the breasts is primarily rooted in traditional practices, and the quality of supporting evidence is quite low.

More about dioscorea
More about Breasts