Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) has a long history of traditional use for women's health concerns, including symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Herbalists and traditional medicine practitioners have recommended wild yam for menstrual cramps, mood swings, and other PMS symptoms, largely because the plant contains compounds called diosgenin and saponins, which are thought to exert effects on hormone balance. However, it is important to note that diosgenin is a phytoestrogen and a precursor to steroid hormones in laboratory synthesis, but the human body does not convert diosgenin into progesterone or other hormones in vivo.

The scientific evidence supporting the use of wild yam for PMS is minimal. Most clinical studies have focused on its use for menopausal symptoms rather than PMS, and results have been inconclusive or have shown no significant benefit. Systematic reviews and authoritative sources, such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), conclude that there is insufficient scientific data to support wild yam's effectiveness for PMS or hormonal regulation in general.

In summary, wild yam’s reputation for supporting PMS is primarily based on traditional use rather than robust scientific evidence. While it remains a popular ingredient in herbal supplements for women’s health, its efficacy for PMS has not been validated by rigorous clinical research.