Wild Yam vs Blue Cohosh Root

North American vine whose root contains diosgenin, historically used as starting material for synthesizing hormonal drugs.

Native North American herb used by Penobscot, Ojibwe, and other tribes to facilitate labor and treat menstrual disorders. Controversial due to uterine stimulant activity.

diosgenin, dioscin, dioscorin, steroidal saponins

caulosaponin, cauloside D, taspine, baptifoline

Treating menstrual cramps, Treating menopausal symptoms, Anti-inflammatory use

Stimulate labor at term, Treat menstrual disorders, Menstrual cramps, Traditional Native American childbirth medicine

Menstrual cramp relief, Anti-spasmodic effects, Anti-inflammatory applications

Uterotonic, Antispasmodic, Anti-inflammatory, Emmenagogue

2-4g dried root in decoction

1-2ml tincture or 1g dried root tea; term pregnancy only under supervision

Pregnancy, Hormone-sensitive conditions

Pregnancy except at term under supervision, Heart disease, Cardiovascular disease

Nausea, Vomiting, Headache

Fetal distress if misused, Nicotinic-like toxicity, Heart arrhythmias