Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Dioscorea, commonly known as yam, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Asian and African cultures. For children suffering from constipation, traditional healers have sometimes recommended Dioscorea as part of dietary or herbal remedies. The rationale stems from its starchy, fiber-rich tubers, which are believed to help promote bowel movements and improve digestive function. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Dioscorea opposita (Chinese yam or "Shan Yao") is used to "strengthen the spleen and stomach," which is thought to aid in digestion and relieve mild constipation, particularly in children and the elderly.

However, there is limited direct scientific research validating the efficacy of Dioscorea specifically for treating constipation in children. While the fiber content of certain Dioscorea species may help regulate bowel movements, no high-quality clinical trials have confirmed its effectiveness or established appropriate dosing for pediatric constipation. Most of the available evidence is anecdotal or based on traditional usage, rather than modern scientific studies. Therefore, while Dioscorea's use for this condition is rooted in tradition and may have some physiological plausibility due to its fiber content, its evidence base remains weak compared to more thoroughly studied remedies. Care should be taken, and professional advice sought before using Dioscorea as a treatment for childhood constipation.

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