Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a perennial vine native to North America. Indigenous peoples used the root to treat various ailments, including menstrual cramps, inflammation, and digestive issues. Early settlers adopted its use, and wild yam became a common remedy for women’s health issues.
The root contains diosgenin, a compound that can be converted into progesterone and other steroids. In the 20th century, wild yam became a source of synthetic hormones used in birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.
In modern herbal medicine, wild yam is used to support hormonal balance, relieve menstrual and menopausal symptoms, and reduce inflammation.
