Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Wild Yam Extract

Also known as: Wild Yam, Mexican Wild Yam, Dioscorea villosa

Overview

Wild yam extract is derived from the root of *Dioscorea villosa*, a plant traditionally used in herbal medicine. It is primarily used for its purported effects on hormonal balance, particularly in menopausal symptoms. The key characteristic of wild yam is its content of steroidal saponins, such as diosgenin, which is claimed to influence steroidogenesis. It is available in various forms, including topical creams and oral supplements. Wild yam is native to North America and Asia. While it has a long history of traditional use, the research supporting its benefits is limited. The available evidence is mostly from small-scale studies, and there is a lack of systematic reviews or meta-analyses to confirm its efficacy and safety. Therefore, caution is advised when considering wild yam extract as a treatment option.

Benefits

There is limited evidence supporting the efficacy of wild yam extract for menopausal symptoms. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study found no significant reduction in symptoms compared to a placebo. Some in vitro studies suggest potential anti-cancer properties, particularly in breast cancer cell lines, but these findings have not been confirmed in human trials. The benefits are not well-defined for specific populations, though it is often marketed towards menopausal women. The effect sizes are generally small and not clinically significant for menopausal symptoms. The time course of any potential benefits is not well-studied, and more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.

How it works

Wild yam extract is thought to influence steroidogenesis due to its saponin content, particularly diosgenin. However, this effect is not well-documented in humans. It may interact with hormonal systems, but evidence is limited. The specific molecular targets are not well-defined. The bioavailability of wild yam extract's active compounds is not well-studied, which further complicates understanding its mechanism of action. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which wild yam extract may exert its effects.

Side effects

Wild yam extract is generally considered safe in short-term use, particularly when applied topically. No significant side effects have been reported in clinical studies. There is limited data on uncommon and rare side effects. Potential interactions with hormonal therapies are speculative and not well-studied. There are no established contraindications, but caution is advised in individuals with hormonal imbalances. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use. Long-term safety data is lacking, so caution is advised with prolonged use. Users should be aware of the limited research supporting its efficacy and safety.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose has not been established. It is typically used in topical creams or oral supplements, but optimal dosages are not defined. Oral toxicity studies suggest a high NOAEL in rats, but human data is lacking. No specific timing recommendations are available. Topical application is common for menopausal symptoms. Bioavailability is not well-studied. No required cofactors have been established. Due to the limited research, it is important to adhere to product label instructions and consult with a healthcare provider before use.

FAQs

Is wild yam extract effective for menopausal symptoms?

Limited evidence supports its efficacy. A placebo-controlled study found no significant reduction in menopausal symptoms compared to a placebo. More research is needed.

Is wild yam extract safe?

Generally considered safe in short-term use, especially topically. Long-term effects are not well-studied. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take wild yam extract?

Follow product label instructions or consult a healthcare provider. It is available in topical creams and oral supplements, but optimal dosages are not well-defined.

What are the potential side effects?

No significant side effects have been reported in clinical studies, but data on uncommon and rare side effects is limited. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any adverse effects.

Does wild yam extract interact with other medications?

Potential interactions with hormonal therapies are speculative and not well-studied. Consult a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications, especially hormonal therapies.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428178/ – This double-blind, placebo-controlled study by Komesaroff et al. (2001) found no significant reduction in menopausal symptoms with topical wild yam extract compared to a placebo. The study involved 23 healthy menopausal women over three months, highlighting the need for further research to validate its efficacy.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25148825/ – The in vitro study by Mazzio et al. (2021) demonstrated the cytotoxic potential of wild yam root extract against triple-negative breast cancer cells. The study used various concentrations of the extract and observed a dose-response relationship, suggesting potential anti-cancer properties that warrant further investigation.
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/RR_Wild%20Yam.pdf – The CIR Safety Assessment (2004) reviewed the use of wild yam root extract in cosmetics and found it generally safe when properly prepared. However, it noted the need for updated safety assessments due to evolving use patterns, emphasizing the importance of ongoing safety monitoring.
https://wlv.openrepository.com/bitstream/handle/2436/625596/Beyond%20Futures%202024%20-%20Research%20Student%20Conference%20Proceedings-Final.pdf;jsessionid=F099397A41ED2D10176918CD3F123055?sequence=2 – This is a student conference proceeding, so it should be interpreted with caution. It may contain preliminary research or reviews of existing literature related to wild yam, but it has not undergone the same peer-review process as published journal articles.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/could-consumption-of-yam-dioscorea-or-its-extract-be-beneficial-in-controlling-glycaemia-a-systematic-review/42A0CF1169BA5A6F85F80E7950B35C43 – This systematic review explores the potential benefits of yam consumption or its extract in controlling glycemia. It analyzes existing research to determine if yam can be beneficial in managing blood sugar levels, providing insights into its potential role in diabetes management.