Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea villosa) – Dried Herb, Wildcrafted

Wild Yam is a long curling perennial vine  with heart-shaped leaves, native of the woodlands of eastern North America. The root is pale brown, with knotty cylindrical tubers. The thin reddish-brown stems can grow to a length of 30 feet. It is found in woods and thickets and the edge of forests from Ontario and Quebec and as far south as Florida.

Other names for Wild Yam are colic root, rheumatism root, devils bones, China root, yuma and fourleaf yam.  The history of Wild Yam as a medicinal herb goes back for hundreds of years. It was traditionally used in Central America among the Aztecs and Mayan people as a pain reliever and digestive aid.  In the 18^th and 19^th centuries, herbalists used Wild Yam to treat menstrual cramps and to ease childbirth and also for upset stomach and coughs.

Wild Yam root has been used by indigenous people in their healing practices, and later in folk herbalism for its beneficial properties.  For centuries herbalists used Wild Yam for inflammation, pain and reproductive problems.

Properties:

The taste of Wild Yam is bland. The energetic properties are bitter, neutral and moistening. Wild Yam has an affinity for kidneys. When the kidneys are solid and strong all the other organs can flourish in health.  In traditional Chinese medicine, Wild Yam nourishes the lungs and spleen especially in cases of loss of fluid.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Wild Yam Root to one cup of water. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and drink up to 3 times per day.

Combine with Calamus, Chamomile and Ginger for abdominal cramping. For pain and inflammation may be used with Black cohosh.

Cautions & contraindications:

We recommend that you consult with your healthcare practitioner if you are pregnant or breast feeding or are taking medication.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your health care provider before the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.