PARTS USED: Root
ACTIONS: Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, diaphoretic, diuretic, estrogenic, carminative, contains hormonal precursors for progesterone.
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES: Wild yam is traditionally used for reducing labor, uterine cramps and ovarian pain. Regulates stomach and uterus by relaxing stagnated liver qi. Regulates every phase of a woman’s cycle from menses, PMS, pregnancy and childbirth, to postpartum and menopause. Will reduce fibroids. Provides natural estrogen. Great for relieving symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis. May help with digestive problems such as colic, irritable bowel syndrome. Excellent for miscarriage. Also used for arthritis, eczema and psoriasis.
COMBINATIONS: With dandelion, burdock, pau d’arco, and Vitex for liver and endocrine tonic.
GROWTH PATTERN: Native to North and Central America and grows well in tropical habitation. Likes moist soil and a lot of sun. Is a deciduous vine the will grow to 20 feet.
SPIRITUAL:
COUNTERINDICATIONS: Do not take during pregnancy until childbirth.
DOSAGE: As a tincture for arthritis drink _ tsp 2 times a day. For menstrual pain or irritable bowel, drink _ cup of infusion 2 times a day.
