Wild Yam

Common Name:

Wild Yam

Botanical Name:

Dioscorea villosa

Short Description:

Wild Yam is a traditional antispasmodic and hormone-balancing herb used to relieve menstrual cramps, smooth muscle spasms, and menopausal symptoms. It has a long history in both Western and Indigenous medicine for supporting women’s reproductive health.

Parts Used:

Root and rhizome (dried)

Actions:

Antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, hepatic, hormone modulating, mild nervine

Energetics:

Cooling, moistening, slightly bitter

Body Systems:

Reproductive, digestive, musculoskeletal, liver

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Supports softness and surrender in the face of pain or rigidity. Wild Yam nourishes the feminine principle, easing tension in both body and emotions—especially where there’s resistance to rest or receptivity.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Moon and Venus
Dosha: Balances Pitta and Vata; may increase Kapha if overused

Safety Notes:

Very safe when used appropriately. Commonly found in creams and tinctures for hormonal support. Despite containing diosgenin, it does not convert to progesterone in the body—its effects are more gently modulatory.