Mexican wild yam is one of many herbs included in the larger family of plants known as wild yam. An extract taken from the roots of these plans has been used for centuries as a "wonder drug" to treat a wide range of hormone-related disorders. One derivative, the Chinese yam, has been used to treat any number of inflammation disorders. The antioxidant properties of wild yam extracts make Mexican wild yam a popular ingredient in modern nutritional supplements.
It has been suggested that the effectiveness of Mexican wild yam is related to certain properties which make the herb a precursor to human sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone, encouraging the body's normal synthesis of these substances. Increased synthesis of such hormones might possibly translate into some health benefits if such synthesis occurs in moderation.
As a nutritional supplement, Mexican wild yam is included as an ingredient in some products as an aphrodisiac and a weight-loss agent. Some believe that the substance inhibits the absorption of fat and cholesterol, therefore aiding in weight loss and overall good health. Mexican yam can also be included as an ingredient in topical creams for use in reducing inflammation and pain for sufferers of arthritis and other similar conditions.
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Mexican Wild Yam Benefits The benefits of Mexican wild yam have been touted in the health food and supplement industry for decades due to the fact that cortisone, progesterone, and androgen products were manufactured from the plant extensively during the 1970s. It is reasoned that if these... more
The benefits of Mexican wild yam have been touted in the health food and supplement industry for decades due to the fact that cortisone, progesterone, and androgen products were manufactured from the plant extensively during the 1970s. It is reasoned that if these substances can be produced from Mexican wild yam in a lab, then taking the herb as a supplement should induce the synthesis of such substances in the body. Unfortunately, there is little evidence to suggest that the herb does so in significant amounts.
For women, Mexican yam is believed by some to be useful in relieving the symptoms of the menstrual cycle. The perceived estrogen synthesis is said to be stimulated by a topical cream and can allegedly relieve cramps and bloating, as well as balance hormone levels in the ovaries to reduce symptoms of PMS. It is also believed that Mexican wild yam can help alleviate the leg and back pain caused by menstruation, and reduce labor and postpartum pain.
The wild yam has been used in China for centuries as an anti-inflammatory agent. It has been used to treat arthritis, muscle spasms, strained tendons and ligaments, and a host of other similar conditions. It is also famous in Oriental cultures as a male aphrodisiac based on chemical properties which allegedly increase the stimulation and arousal of the male genitals.
Finally, the Chinese also believe that wild yam is helpful in maintaining proper internal balance, also known as "chi". The belief is that proper chi will eliminate gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and excess gas, as well as promote overall good health in the liver, kidneys, bladder, and arteries.
Any nutritional supplement or therapeutic product which has the potential for altering natural hormone levels should be used with the utmost of care. Mexican wild yam specifically contains dioscorin, a potentially toxic substance which can cause severe vomiting if taken in excess.
Other than the vomiting issue, no other serious side effects have been conclusively linked to Mexican wild yam. As with any nutritional supplement or medical therapy, if you should experience any side effects discontinue using the product and see a doctor.
Since Mexican wild yam affects estrogen production in laboratory mice, it is possible that use of a supplement could have adverse effects in women with estrogen-related tumors. It should also be avoided by women who are pregnant or nursing due to the unknown effects of the substance on infants. Excess usage of Mexican wild yam has been linked in a limited number of women to hirsutism (excessive hair) and permanent changes in voice tone and quality.
Mexican wild yam is sold in the form of creams, tablets, and liquid supplements. As a general rule it is recommended that individuals ingest no more than 50 mg per day. Therapeutic doses exceeding 25 mg actually require a doctor's approval. Mexican wild yam as an ingredient in a topical cream is subject to less stringent dosage restrictions.
As an oral supplement to aid in the symptoms of menopause, Mexican wild yam can be taken in several ways: 2-4 ml per day in a glass of water, 1 tablespoon of liquid extract to a cup of boiling water for tea, or .5-2 grams of powder mixed with a favorite beverage. Users should be careful not to exceed the recommended dosage printed on packaging materials, despite the fact that the substance is being diluted in water or another liquid. Find and compare Mexican Wild Yam sources by using the free supplement finder now!
| Vomiting |
| Deepening of Voice |
| Hirsutism |
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| Aphrodisiac |
| Arterial Health |
| Arthritis |
| Bladder Health |
| Chi (Or Internal Balance) |
| Gastrointestinal Issues |
| Inflammation |
| Kidney Health |
| Labor Pain |
| Liver Health |
| Menopause |
| Menstruation Pain |
| Muscle Spasms |
| PMS |
| Weight Loss |