Herb
Wild yam
SaveA traditional root used for cramps and women's-health formulas, often confused with pharmaceutical progesterone lore.
Quick verdict
Its traditional use is real, but the common hormone-marketing narrative around wild yam is misleading.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Wild yam contains diosgenin, which can be converted into steroid hormones in a lab but not meaningfully by the human body. Clinical evidence for menopause or hormone support is weak.
Benefits
- Used traditionally for cramping and GI spasm
- Provides saponin-rich plant compounds
- Common ingredient in legacy women's-health formulas
Dosage notes
Usually taken as tea, tincture, or capsule in modest traditional amounts.
Side effects
- GI upset
- Nausea
- Headache
Who should be cautious
People with hormone-sensitive conditions should still be cautious even though the direct hormone-conversion claims are overstated.
What this page cannot tell you
The biochemical raw material story should not be mistaken for actual in-body progesterone support.
Leaderboard scores
- Pain10
- Mood10
Write a review
Sign in to write a review.