Wild Yam Tuber Powder

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a perennial climbing vine native to North America. The plant typically grows up to 3-6 meters (10-20 feet) in length and has heart-shaped leaves that are alternate and grow up to 10 cm (4 inches) long. Wild yam produces small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowers are greenish yellow in color and grow in clusters on separate male and female plants. The female plants produce a small, round fruit that contains many small seeds. The root of the wild yam plant is the part that has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. It is a rich source of steroidal saponins, particularly diosgenin, which is a precursor to progesterone. Wild yam root has been used in traditional herbal medicine to relieve menstrual cramps, ease symptoms of menopause, and as a digestive aid.