Evidence supporting the use of: Mexican Yam
For the body system: Ovaries

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

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Mexican yam (Dioscorea villosa), often called "wild yam," has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, especially in North America, to support women's reproductive health, including the ovaries. Historically, wild yam was used by Native American and later Western herbalists to address menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms, and various gynecological complaints. The root contains diosgenin, a compound structurally similar to human steroid hormones. In the 20th century, diosgenin from Mexican yam became an important raw material for the pharmaceutical synthesis of corticosteroids and sex hormones (such as progesterone) in the laboratory. However, the human body cannot convert diosgenin into hormones simply by consuming wild yam or its extracts. Scientific evidence supporting the direct benefit of Mexican yam on ovarian function or hormone balance in humans is lacking. Clinical trials are sparse and have not demonstrated a significant effect on hormone levels, fertility, or ovarian health. Despite this, Mexican yam is still found in many supplements marketed for "hormonal balance" or "ovarian support," a practice rooted in traditional use and the misconception that it acts as a phytoestrogen or "natural progesterone." In summary, while there is a strong tradition behind its use for supporting the ovaries, this is not backed by robust scientific research.

More about Mexican Yam
More about Ovaries

Products containing Mexican Yam

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.