Chinese Yam - Dioscorea polystachya
Chinese Yam, Dioscorea polystachya, is a flowering, perennial, climbing vine in the yam family. It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antioxidant. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes. It also helps regulate the gut microbiota and has an estrogenic effect. The bioactive secondary metabolites are polyphenols, allantoin, polysaccharides, amino acids, and saponins.1
Studies have shown it can improve insulin resistance and reduce cholesterol levels. The polysaccharides encourage a healthy gut biome. The lectin has been studied and shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.2 It is being investigated as a treatment for menopausal symptoms. It contains allantoin which is used in many topical applications to encourage skin cell exfoliation and thereby soften and smooth the skin.
Tincture dosing: 6-18 ml 3 times per day. Start with a small dose as allergies and intolerances are always possible.
Possible side effects: allergy
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any illness.