Dioscorea opposita or wild yam is a vine native to moist tropical zones worldwide. The rhizome is the part used in herbal medicine.

The medicinal properties of dioscorea include antiasthmatic, antiarthritic, analgesic, antitussive, expectorant and antidiabetic effects. It is used to treat neuralgia, colic, kidney stones and irritable bowel syndrome.

Dioscorea can be beneficial for those with high cholesterol. In Hawaii, physicians report that dioscorea raises levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. While the mechanism by which this happens has not yet been scientifically explained, it is known that the water-soluble saponins in dioscorea cause inert complexes to be formed from cholesterol while food is in the stomach and the bloodstream never absorbs the undigested mass of cholesterol.

Animal studies have shown alcohol extracts of dioscorea to reduce blood sugar levels by 50 percent in both diabetic and normal test animals. In humans, dioscorea reduces blood-sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes.

Dioscorea has been used traditionally in North and Central America as a treatment for ovarian pain and painful menstruation. The action of the herb has to do with its anti-inflammatory properties making it a useful remedy for female reproductive-tract disorders

While most conveniently used as a tincture, dioscorea is available and maybe even more effective in capsule, tea and cream form. The herb has virtually no toxicity and is effective in very low doses.

* Important notes: Those pregnant or nursing should not use dioscorea. Always be sure that the form of the herb you are using is all natural and doesn't contain synthetic progesterone, which is used in birth control pills and is commonly found in over the counter versions of dioscorea.

It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using dioscorea or any alternative therapies. Any recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.