Dioscorea collettii and its close relative Dioscorea hypoglauca are species of yam traditionally used in Chinese medicine, particularly for the treatment of joint-related conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis. The primary bioactive constituents in these plants are steroidal saponins, notably dioscin, gracillin, and protodioscin. Modern pharmacological studies have provided some scientific validation for their traditional use in supporting joint health.

In vivo and in vitro experiments have demonstrated that extracts of Dioscorea collettii can inhibit inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide, TNF-α, and interleukins in macrophages and synoviocytes. These anti-inflammatory effects are believed to be mediated through suppression of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Several studies using animal models of arthritis (e.g., adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats) have shown that extracts of Dioscorea collettii can reduce joint swelling, decrease inflammatory cell infiltration, and protect cartilage from degradation.

While most of the scientific evidence is preclinical, with limited human clinical trials, the consistency of findings across different experimental models lends moderate support to its efficacy for joint health. Thus, the use of Dioscorea collettii/hypoglauca for joint support is justified by both traditional use and emerging scientific evidence, though more robust clinical trials are needed to fully confirm its efficacy and safety in humans.