Evidence supporting the use of: Wild yam
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

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

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for the management of menstrual cramps, including dysmenorrhea. The root contains compounds known as diosgenin, which is a phytoestrogen and has been a precursor in the laboratory synthesis of steroid hormones such as progesterone. However, in the body, wild yam does not convert into active hormones, and its actual physiological effects in humans remain largely unproven.

Traditionally, Native American and early European herbalists used wild yam preparations to address a range of female reproductive issues, including menstrual pain and discomfort. The rationale was based on observed spasmolytic (muscle-relaxing) properties and anecdotal evidence that it provided relief from cramps and pain.

Despite its longstanding use in traditional medicine, scientific evidence supporting wild yam's effectiveness for dysmenorrhea is minimal. Few clinical trials have been conducted, and those that exist are of low quality or inconclusive. Most support for its use remains anecdotal or based on extrapolation from laboratory studies, rather than robust clinical data. Thus, while wild yam is still marketed in supplements for "women's health" and menstrual support, there is insufficient scientific validation to recommend it confidently for dysmenorrhea. The traditional use persists more on historical reputation than on modern clinical proof.

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