Synopsis

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

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) has a long history of traditional use, particularly in Native American and early Western herbal medicine, for supporting women's reproductive health. Historically, it has been used to help manage symptoms related to menstruation and menopause, such as cramps and hot flashes. The root contains diosgenin, a compound that can be chemically converted into steroid hormones like progesterone in the laboratory. However, the body cannot convert diosgenin into hormones on its own, so consuming wild yam does not directly increase hormone levels. Despite its popularity in traditional and alternative medicine, especially as a natural remedy for hormonal balance, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for reproductive health in humans is limited and of low quality. Most modern claims are based on its traditional use and the presence of diosgenin, but clinical studies have not confirmed significant benefits for the reproductive system. Thus, while wild yam is still promoted in supplements for menstrual and menopausal support, its usage is justified more by tradition than by solid scientific validation.

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