WILD YAM (Dioscorea villosa) aka - Colic Root, Devil’s Bones, Mexican Wild Yam, Rheumatism Root

There is no record indicating how Wild Yam came to be called “devil’s bones,” but the name makes sense. The plant consists of long, thin, twisted roots that meander along below the surface of the earth and have a skeletal look. Wild Yam is used for biliary colic, pains of gallstones, menstrual cramps, arthritic and rheumatic pains, abdominal and intestinal cramps.  It is also good for chronic problems associated with gas or flatulence. Wild Yam is one of the best herbal anti-catarrhal agents. It is very valuable in pulmonary and catarrhal conditions.  Wild Yam has an overall effect on liver health due to its ability to lower blood cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. Wild Yam has a potent tonic effect on the uterus when taken throughout the period of pregnancy. It relaxes the muscular fiber, soothes the nerves, and relieves pain, especially in the uterus. It is often used to balance hormones to treat nausea in pregnant women and to aid in preventing miscarriage, cramps, and the general pains of pregnancy.