Wild Yam
Latin Name: Dioscorea Villosa
Other Name: American Yam, Chinese Root, Colic Root
Type: Herb
Wild yam is a twinning, tuberous vine with heart-shaped leaves that is native to North America and China.
People have used it for centuries in alternative medicine for various ailments like menstrual discomforts, colic and coughs. Its root, or rhizome is used in commercial preparations as it contains diosgenin, a phytoestrogen that can promote the production of several hormones in humans such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and estrogen. As such, some traditional medicine practitioners use wild yam to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flushes, low mood, night sweats and etc. by stabilising the level of estrogen.
Wild yam is also believed to have anti-spasmodic properties that might be helpful for reducing cramps and muscular pain associated with premenstrual symptoms. In addition, wild yam is also used to manage joint inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Share
Stay Inspired with Health Trends
17 Oct 2025
Burned Out From Weight Loss? Here's How To Recharge And Keep Going!
Trying to lose weight but the scales aren’t moving?
15 Oct 2025
The Mental Load of Menopause: A Silent Strain Behind Closed Doors
In the lead-up to World Menopause Day (October 18), we're shining the spotlight on a hidden crisis - menopausal burnout. It’s not just about hot flashes and mood swings. It’s the mental fog that clouds meetings, the bone-deep fatigue, the 3am wakeups, the anxiety that simmers beneath the surface — all while managing careers, caregiving, and the invisible weight of emotional labour.
14 Oct 2025
Mindful Eating, Meaningful Living This World Food Day
In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to overlook what you eat.
01 Oct 2025
Are You Really Getting Enough Calcium? Spoiler: Probably Not
Calcium is a mineral you hear about from a young age. Your parents telling you to drink your milk, health gurus promoting leafy greens, and the constant advice to look after your bones as you get older. But here’s the truth despite all this, most aren’t getting enough calcium in diets. Shocking, right?
24 Sep 2025
Power Up Your Pickleball Game
In celebration of Healthy Ageing Month this September, we are diving into a trending sport that is taking Southeast Asia by storm – Pickleball!
10 Sep 2025
5 Skincare Tips For A Moon Goddess Glow
Radiant, flawless skin starts from within—nourish, hydrate, protect, rest, and support with targeted supplements like LAC Taut® for a healthy, effortless glow.
08 Sep 2025
Bye Bye, Bite Season
Let’s face it, nothing kills holiday vibes like a fever, joint pain, and a mosquito bite you didn’t even notice. If you’ve been seeing the news about Chikungunya fever lately, you’re not alone
01 Sep 2025
Beware the Three Highs — Silent Threats That Could Be Putting Your Heart at Risk!
As World Heart Day approaches on September 29th, it's a timely reminder that protecting your heart should always remain your top priority. Learn more about the three silent threats that often go unnoticed and how you can take control and fight back!