Wild Yam Root
Wild Yam is used for and upset digestive tract caused by not enough bile for digestion, and gallstones in the gall bladder, abdominal and intestinal cramps. It is also good for chronic problems with gas or flatulence. Wild Yam root yields an important alkaloid substance which relaxes the muscles of the stomach walls and the entire abdomen region. This alkaloid also acts as a sedative on the nerves governing the area.
This herb is very relaxing and soothing to the nerves.
Wild Yam will lower blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It increases the efficiency of the liver. It is an important herb both for the health of the liver and the endocrine system.
It helps with menstrual cramps. It is also used in gland balancing formulas. Its anti-spasmodic nature is helpful with all kinds of abdominal cramps. This herb has a potent tonic effect on the uterus when taken throughout the period of pregnancy. It helps with morning sickness. It has been found to be an excellent preventative for miscarriage and greatly alleviates pre-labor contractions in the last trimester. It contains a progesterone precursor. It also helps with hot flashes and hormonal imbalances. Wild Yam’s steroid like substances are used in the making of birth control pills. The Indians of North America for hundreds of years for birth control effectively.
Wild Yam aids in problems with arthritis and rheumatism. Combined with other blood cleansers it will aid in removing wastes from the system, relieving stiff, sore joints.
This herb has been used historically for those with exhausted adrenals. It certainly competes with Licorice root which is famous for problems with the adrenals and low blood sugar.
Wild yam is safe to take over an extended period of time and has no residual side effects.
To make a tea for preventing miscarriage:
Combine 1 tsp. Wild Yam with1/4th tsp. Ginger in a cup of boiling water. Steep 30 minutes. You may want to add Raspberry leaves and Squawvine if you are making a pregnancy tea using Wild Yam.
For liver problems, spasms, arthritis, etc.:
Steep 1 heaping tsp. in a cup of boiling water for 30 minutes. Drink 1-3 cupfuls/day, cold.
Bodily Influence:
Anti-bilious: This herb reduces biliary or jaundice condition
Anti-catarrhal: This herb eliminates mucus conditions
Anti-emetic: This herb lessens nausea and prevents or relieves vomiting
Anti-inflammatory: This herb counteracts and diminishes inflammation or its effects
Anti-rheumatic: This herb prevents and relieves rheumatism
Anti-spasmodic: This herb prevents and relieves spasms
Bitter: This herb stimulates secretion of digestion and encourages appetite
Blood purifier: This herb cleanses the blood as well as enhances it by increasing the nutrient value
Carminative: This herb relieves intestinal gas pain and distension; promotes peristalsis
Cholagague: This herb stimulates bile flow from the gall bladder and bile ducts into the duodenum
Diaphoretic: This herb causes perspiration and increases elimination through the skin
Diuretic: This herb increases the secretion and flow of urine
Expectorant: This herb encourages the loosening of phlegm from the respiratory tract
Hepatic: This herb supports and stimulates the liver, gall bladder, and spleen, and increase the flow of bile
Laxative: This herb stimulates bowel movements
Nervine: This herb strengthens functional activity of the nervous system
Relaxant: This herb relaxes nerves and muscles; relieves tension
Stimulant: This herb increases internal heat, dispels internal chill and strengthens metabolism and circulation
Stomachic: This herb strengthens stomach function
Tonic: This herb restores, nourishes, and supports the entire body; it exerts a gently strengthening effect on the body