What Is Wild Yam Root?
Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a perennial climbing vine native to the woodlands and thickets of eastern North America. It twines up shrubs and fences with heart-shaped, deeply veined leaves and small greenish flowers, and spreads underground by a knotty, woody rhizome. It is also known as colic root and four-leaved yam.
Unlike the sweet potatoes sold as yams in American supermarkets, or the large edible yams of Africa and Asia, wild yam does not form a starchy tuber for eating. Its thin, twisted rhizome is woody and bitter, and it is the part dug and dried for herbal use.
Wild yam root has a long history in Native American and 19th century American herbal traditions. In the 20th century it became famous in science, because Dioscorea species contain diosgenin, a plant compound that chemists used as a starting material in the laboratory.
Today the dried root is used to brew wild yam root tea and decoctions, with an earthy and slightly bitter taste, and as an ingredient in traditional herbal blends.
Our wild yam root contains only dried Dioscorea villosa root with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Wild Yam Root
- Root decoction: Simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 2 to 4 g) of root in 1 1/2 cups (12 fl oz / 350 ml) of water for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and drink warm.
- Blends: Combine with ginger, cinnamon or licorice root to balance the bitter taste.
- Tincture: Herbalists macerate the dried root in alcohol for several weeks.
Safety
Do not use during pregnancy or while nursing. Avoid if you have a hormone-sensitive condition or take hormone medication, unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to make wild yam root tea: our guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make wild yam root tea?
Simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried root in water for 15 to 20 minutes, then strain.
Is wild yam the same as sweet potato or edible yam?
No. Wild yam, Dioscorea villosa, has a thin, woody, bitter root that is not eaten as a vegetable.
What does wild yam tea taste like?
It is earthy and slightly bitter.
Is wild yam root caffeine free?
Yes. It contains no caffeine.
How should I store wild yam root?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.