Dioscorea ( Dioscorea villosa ), also known as Wild/Four-leaf Yam, Colic/Rheumatism Root or Devil's Oats, is a climbing plant with a cylindrical stem. Its leaves are heart-shaped, and its flowers are white or green.

It is used in osteoporosis (consumption of dried root, infusion, and tincture), in rheumatoid arthritis (decoction), and is effective in relieving pain in the uterus and ovaries, dysmenorrhea, and intestinal colic (all with decoction).

Key Properties:

• Contains hormone-like substances similar to progesterone
• Antispasmodic
• Smooth muscle relaxant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Contraceptive

Uses: for menstrual pain, colic related to irritable bowel, labor pains, arthritic or rheumatic pain.

How to use:

Decoction: Boil 1 teaspoon of herb in a cup of water, strain and drink. Infusion: After boiling water, remove from heat, add the recommended dose of the herb (usually 1 teaspoon), and let it cover for 5 minutes. Strain and drink.

Precautions: Should be avoided during pregnancy.

*The genus Dioscorea is also known as Dioscorea, Dioscoria, Bryonia, or Avronia.