Wild Yam, American (seed)
Dioscorea villosa
Family: Dioscoraceae
Vining herbaceous perennial. Native to the Eastern American hardwood
forests. Our laboratory tests confirm the presence, after hydrolysis,
of the phytosterol diosgenin, which is not present in the Chinese Wild
Yam. The most significant medicinal use for American Wild Yam is
as an antispasmodic to smooth muscle, which includes the gastro-intestinal
tract and uterus. It is good for treating contraction and pain in
these organs. Cultivation: Sow the seeds in the fall, midwinter
or early spring, directly in prepared woodland beds or in the greenhouse.
The seedlings are extremely delicate, so keep them well weeded and prevent
animals from stepping on them. If started in the greenhouse, grow
out for a year (keep moist/shaded) in gallon pots before transplanting
to the garden or naturalizing in the forest. Likes good, humusy soil
and partial sun. Space plants 1 foot apart. Provide trellis
or allow to climb and fruit on nearby bushes and trees.
Return
to Herb Seed Index