Wild yam has an extensive history of use in botanical medicine. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the plant first gained popularity during the 1700s, when healers began recommending it as a treatment for menstrual discomforts, upset stomach, coughs and problems with childbirth. In modern naturopathy, people suffering from cardiovascular sometimes use the vegetable or its extracts to lower blood pressure. There is not enough evidence to prove or refute wild yam's efficacy as a method for reducing blood pressure levels.
Composition and Effects
Wild yam's primary active constituent compound is diosgenin, which can be used in laboratory settings to synthesize artificial hormones, including estrogen, progesterone and DHEA. Although product manufacturers may falsely advertise that wild yam contains progesterone, wild yam does not contain any human hormone and does not alter levels of any hormone in the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that all available scientific evidence suggests that the herb is ineffective in most advertised capacities.
Use in Heart Disease
No human studies have directly investigated wild yam's impact on blood pressure, and very few studies have examined its impact on general cardiovascular health. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that diosgenin in wild yam appears to block the absorption of cholesterol in animal studies. However, human clinical trials have failed to find any change in cholesterol levels among wild yam users. The National Institutes of Health does not acknowledge any evidence supporting wild yam's use as a treatment for hypertension or high cholesterol.
Other Uses
Although no evidence supports wild's yam use to lower blood pressure, the plant remains a popular naturopathic treatment for several common ailments. The National Institutes of Health acknowledges wild yam's popularity as a treatment for menopause-related complaints, such as hot flashes, night sweats and sexual dysfunction. However, it appears to be ineffective in this regard. There is also insufficient evidence to recommend wild yam as a treatment for osteoporosis, infertility, painful menstruation, gallbladder disease or arthritis.
Dangers and Side Effects
According to the American Cancer Society, large doses of wild yam can cause gastrointestinal upsets, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Rarely, wild yam products can also trigger allergic reactions with symptoms such as hives, rashes and asthma. Because wild yam products have not been studied for use in pregnancy or lactation, it should be avoided by women who are pregnant or nursing. Always consult a qualified health care provider before
