The Science of Wild Yam in Skin Care
Many influencers who focus on natural and herbal ingredients have identified wild yam as an effective anti-aging skin care ingredient.
Although there is little scientific research on the effectiveness of wild yam as an anti-aging skin care product.
There is evidence that its anti-inflammatory and so-called estrogenic effects may help make skin look and feel younger, especially for women in menopause.
However, due to these estrogenic properties, wild yam cream may not be right for every woman.
Before diving into wild yam and its potential effects on your skin, you should know your skin type so you can better assess whether this ingredient is worth trying.
In skin care, wild yam root may relieve wrinkles and dryness caused by estrogen deficiency.
There is limited scientific evidence that wild yam has cosmetic benefits in skin care.
Women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer should consult their doctor before using wild yam cream.
Eating wild yam may increase estradiol and estrogen levels, but applying wild yam topically is unlikely to have such an effect.
What is wild yam (Dioscorea villosa)?
Wild yam, scientifically known as Dioscorea villosa, is a perennial vine native to North America.
It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for centuries, particularly by Native American tribes.
The plant is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and tuberous roots, which contain a variety of bioactive compounds.
The roots of the plant are often harvested and processed into extracts, creams, and capsules for use not only in skin care, but also as a natural remedy for menopausal symptoms.
Again, little research has been done on its potential to effectively relieve menopausal symptoms, although at least one study suggests that short-term use of wild yam may have no side effects (3).
Estrogenic Effects
Wild yam generally has the ability to affect hormone levels, especially estrogen. During menopause, estrogen levels in the body drop significantly, leading to dry skin and increased wrinkling.
Estrogen plays a key role in the production of collagen, an important protein that keeps skin firm and youthful.
Wild yam contains so-called phytoestrogens, which can mimic the functions of estrogen in the body. For this reason, it is often used in skin care products for women during menopause.
However, there is little data to support this hypothesis.
Wild yam does not contain any true estrogen. It does contain phytoestrogens that can bind to estrogen receptors.
This could mean that applying wild yam root topically in a skin care product could help relieve symptoms such as dry skin and wrinkles that are associated with low estrogen levels.
However, research (3) suggests that topical creams containing wild yam root do not relieve menopausal symptoms.
However, consuming wild yams can affect hormone levels, such as estrogen levels (5).
Active Ingredients in Wild Yams
Wild yam root contains several active ingredients that can also have positive effects on the skin when applied topically:
Dioscin. Dioscin is a steroidal saponin that is a precursor to several hormones, including progesterone.
In skin care, dioscin is thought to promote skin health through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Saponins. Saponins in wild yam are thought to exert their anti-inflammatory properties by modulating the inflammatory process, thereby soothing irritated or inflamed skin.
Saponins can also help other active ingredients penetrate the skin.
Flavonoids. Wild yams contain a variety of flavonoids, a class of polyphenols with powerful antioxidant properties.
Flavonoids protect the skin from oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing or preventing the damage they can cause to skin cells.
Starch and fiber. While they don’t work directly like saponins or flavonoids, the starch and fiber in wild yams can form a protective barrier to retain moisture and improve skin hydration.
When added to topical formulations, they can improve skin smoothness and elasticity.
Benefits of Wild Yams in Skin Care
The many active ingredients in wild yam root can provide a variety of benefits to the skin, including:
Anti-aging effects. The estrogenic effects of wild yam root can help reduce signs of aging such as dryness, wrinkles, or thinning of the skin caused by decreased estrogen levels in women.
In addition, the antioxidant properties of wild yam root can help reduce signs of skin aging caused by free radicals.
Improved hydration. The starch and fiber in wild yams can form a protective barrier on the surface of the skin to help retain moisture.
Additionally, the saponins found in wild yam roots can boost the absorption of other moisturizing ingredients, which can improve the skin’s overall hydration and elasticity.
Calming Effects. Wild yams can soothe irritated or inflamed skin due to their anti-inflammatory properties, making them suitable for sensitive skin.
Side Effects of Wild Yams in Skin Care
Wild yam creams may have some important side effects that you should be aware of, including:
Hormone Imbalances. Wild yams contain diosgenin, a compound that can mimic estrogen in the body. Overuse can disrupt natural hormone balance.
Therefore, consult your doctor before use, especially if you already have a hormonal imbalance.
Allergic Reactions. Some people may experience skin irritation, redness, or allergic reactions when using wild yam creams.
Digestive Problems. While it’s rare for wild yams to be used topically, they may cause nausea, vomiting, or indigestion if consumed.
Wild Yams and Cancer Risk: What Are the Studies Saying?
There is still controversy over whether wild yams affect cancer risk, especially the risk of hormone-dependent cancers such as breast and ovarian cancer.
Concerns arise from the potential estrogenic effects of wild yam, as elevated estrogen levels have been linked to an increased risk of these cancers.
However, scientific research on wild yam and its direct effects on cancer risk is limited and inconclusive.
Most studies focus on diosgenin, a compound in wild yam that mimics estrogen, although it does not necessarily have the same function in the body.
Current evidence does not clearly support the hypothesis that wild yam creams significantly increase cancer risk, but it cannot be ruled out, especially for women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer.
Due to the lack of solid evidence, people with a history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or other hormone-related conditions should consult a doctor before using wild yam products.
Who should avoid using wild yam root?
While topical use of wild yam in skin care may not be enough to produce systemic hormonal effects, people with the following characteristics and conditions should avoid wild yam in their diet and skin care:
Women with a history of estrogen-dependent cancers such as breast and uterine cancer
Boys and men
Pregnant women
Melasma or hyperpigmentation
Products containing wild yam
There are many creams containing wild yam. The leading brand is Neocutis, which uses wild yam extract in a variety of anti-aging moisturizers.
Conclusion: Does Wild Yam Really Have Skin Care Benefits?
The effectiveness of wild yam for skin care depends largely on your individual skin type and specific needs.
Although many people report positive results from using wild yam products, scientific evidence regarding estrogenic effects and overall benefits is still lacking.
The active ingredients in wild yam may have benefits, especially in treating dryness, irritation, and signs of aging.
However, people with specific health conditions or hormonal imbalances should consult a doctor before starting to take wild yam.
Men should avoid using and consuming products and foods that contain large amounts of wild yam.
