Evidence supporting the use of: Wild yam
For the health condition: Infertility

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Native American and early European herbal practices. It has been used for a variety of women’s health issues, including menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms, and, less commonly, infertility. The traditional rationale is based on the belief that wild yam can help balance female hormones due to its content of diosgenin, a plant compound that is a precursor in the laboratory synthesis of steroid hormones like progesterone. However, it is important to note that the human body cannot convert diosgenin into progesterone naturally; this conversion can only occur in laboratory settings.

There is very limited scientific evidence supporting the use of wild yam for infertility. Most available studies relate to its use for menopausal symptoms, and even these provide inconclusive or negative results regarding its efficacy. No high-quality clinical trials have demonstrated benefits of wild yam for enhancing fertility in women or men. As a result, its use for treating infertility is rooted primarily in tradition and anecdotal reports rather than validated by scientific research.

In summary, while wild yam is sometimes included in herbal blends marketed for fertility support, its reputation in this area is based on traditional uses and theoretical mechanisms rather than robust scientific evidence. Individuals considering wild yam for infertility should be aware of the lack of scientific support and consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

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