David L. Hoffmann BSc Hons MNIMHDioscorea villosa
Part Used: Dried underground parts.
Constituents: Steroidal saponins, based on diosgenin:
dioscin, dioscorin, and others.
Actions: Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic,
hepatic, cholagogue, diaphoretic.
Indications: This valuable herb was at one time the sole
source of the chemicals that were used as the raw materials for
contraceptive hormone manufacture. In herbal medicine Wild Yam
is a remedy that can be used to relieve intestinal colic,
to soothe diverticulitis, ease dysmenorrhoea and
ovarian and uterine pains. It is of great use in
the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, especially the acute phase
where there is intense inflammation.
Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l-2 teaspoonfuls
of the herb in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer gently
for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.
Maryon Stewart
Jim Strohecker