For so many years now, wild yam is used for treating colic. It’s exactly for this reason why it is sometimes referred to as “colic root”. Being an excellent antispasmodic, it is also employed for dealing with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Wild yam is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties, too, thanks to its various steroidal saponins.
Here are some of the health benefits of wild yam that you should know about:
It Eases Abdominal Pain
Earlier, it was mentioned that wild yam is an antispasmodic, which means that it is capable of alleviating spasms of involuntary muscles in your body. This is exactly the reason why it’s being used for years now in dealing with painful abdominal cramps caused by excess gas (flatulence) or sometimes obstruction in the large intestines.
It Also Relieves Colic in Babies
One of the primary uses of wild yam in the past, especially by Native Americans, is for relieving colic in babies. Again, it has something to do with the fact that wild yam works as an antispasmodic. However, if your baby is suffering from colic, it’s a much better idea to have your trusted doctor consulted first.
It Soothes PMS Symptoms
Women who are often bugged by PMS may count on wild yam in attaining relief from its many unfavorable symptoms. Discomfort in the abdomen and joint and muscle pain — these can be alleviated by wild yam, say traditional healers and so many women who have already tried counting on wild yam for their bouts of PMS.
It Reduces Menopausal Issues, Too
There are simply a lot of unfavorable symptoms that women entering the menopausal stage or are already in it have to put up with. Those who want to manage hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes and others in a more natural approach may try relying on wild yam, which may be utilized both orally and externally.
It Lessens Joint and Muscle Pain
Just about anyone can take advantage of wild yam for joint and muscle pain, not just women who suffer from PMS. Earlier in this article, it was said that wild yam have steroidal saponins in it. This is exactly why wild yam is a well-known herbal remedy for painful and inflamed joints and muscles — plus why it is sometimes called “rheumatism root”.
It Aids Digestion
Wild yam is used by traditional healers in enhancing the functioning of the liver and gall bladder, both of which are vital for the digestive process. However, there are not enough scientific investigations to date proving that wild yam is indeed very good at promoting healthier liver and gall bladder.
It is Good for the Heart
However, there are plenty of studies suggesting that wild yam can be very beneficial for the heart. That’s because the herb is known to help lower LDL or bad cholesterol by raising HDL or good cholesterol levels. Because of this, one’s risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack and stroke can be reduced.
It Reduces Stress Levels and Anxiety
The intake of wild yam is said to be beneficial for people who are constantly under stress as it can help with the nerves. Also, many people who are suffering from anxiety count on wild yam to help them attain much-needed relaxation. Sometimes wild yam is also employed for putting an end to insomnia.
Currently, you can avail of wild yam in capsule form. Many health food stores also sell it in extract form, which can be easily turned into tea. Wild yam is available in powdered form, too, which can be added into creams and ointments formulated for easing certain issues concerning a woman’s reproductive health.
Experts in the use of herbs for medicinal purposes warn that it is not a good idea to use fresh wild yam planrt. They add that wild yam, regardless of the form, is not intended for children and pregnant women.
Source: livestrong.com
