Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) has a long history of use in traditional and herbal medicine, particularly for women's health. Historically, it has been used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause and menstrual discomfort. The root of wild yam contains a compound called diosgenin, which can be chemically converted into progesterone and other steroids in laboratory settings. However, this conversion does not occur in the human body; the human digestive system cannot transform diosgenin into progesterone or any active steroid hormones.

Despite its traditional use, scientific evidence does not support the claim that wild yam or its extracts can increase progesterone levels or directly influence the "progesterone body system" in humans. Most clinical studies have failed to demonstrate any significant hormonal effects following wild yam supplementation. Products marketed as "natural progesterone" creams or supplements containing wild yam rely on the misconception that diosgenin acts as a phyto-progesterone—something unsupported by credible research.

In summary, wild yam is used to support the progesterone body system primarily based on traditional beliefs and anecdotal reports, not on scientific validation. Its reputation is rooted in historical herbal practices rather than robust clinical evidence.