Dioscorea nipponica vs Urtica Urens

Asian yam species used in TCM for joint pain, cardiovascular conditions, and as expectorant.

Annual nettle species with similar properties to stinging nettle; used in Mediterranean and North African medicine for arthritis, iron deficiency, and diuretic purposes.

dioscin, diosgenin, saponins, sterols

formic acid, histamine, acetylcholine, lectins, flavonoids

Joint pain in TCM, Cardiovascular support, Expectorant for cough, Blood circulation

Arthritis, Iron deficiency, Diuretic use, Skin conditions

Anti-inflammatory for joints, Cardiovascular support, Expectorant

Anti-inflammatory activity, Diuretic effects, Iron supplementation, Antirheumatic properties

9-15 g dried root decocted daily

Herb tea: 2-3 cups daily; 1-2ml tincture 3x daily; topical urtication for arthritis

Pregnancy, Bleeding disorders

Pregnancy large medicinal doses, Potassium-depleting diuretics

GI upset in high doses

Sting if touched fresh, Mild diuresis, Potential blood pressure lowering