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For as long as I can remember, my mum has always had a cupboard full of herbs, supplements, and homemade remedies. She would often remind me that when the time came for me to go through menopause, I should let her know because she could help me do it naturally, without relying on HRT.
What was my mum’s secret? Wild yam root.
Now, I’m not here to dismiss the role of HRT—it has undoubtedly helped millions of women manage menopause. However, given my personal struggles with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), I’m keen to explore alternative treatments that might help me avoid further hormonal imbalances.
Recently, I stumbled upon Barbara O’Neill, a remarkable advocate for natural medicine, who is helping people reconnect with the roots of herbal remedies. When I heard her talk about wild yam and later watched her video on hormones, I couldn’t believe I hadn’t considered it before for PMDD.
What is Wild Yam?
Wild yam, scientifically known as Dioscorea villosa, is a plant native to North America, long used in traditional medicine. The root of this plant contains compounds that can be converted into diosgenin, which is a precursor to progesterone. While wild yam itself doesn’t contain hormones, it’s thought to support the body’s natural hormone balance by mimicking progesterone, making it a popular choice for alleviating symptoms associated with menopause, PMS, and PMDD.
Wild Yam and Hormonal Balance
Wild yam is particularly valued for its potential to help balance hormones naturally. It’s frequently used by women going through menopause or experiencing other hormonal fluctuations, such as PMDD. The theory behind its use is that by providing the body with essential building blocks, wild yam may help reduce symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, and other discomforts associated with hormonal imbalance.
Using Wild Yam in Cream Form
One of the most effective ways to benefit from wild yam is by using it as a topical cream. This method allows the active compounds to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the skin. According to Barbara O’Neill's research, the best way to use wild yam cream is to apply it to different areas of the body for three weeks each month, followed by a one-week break.
Here’s how to apply it for best results:
Rotate Application Areas: Apply the cream to different parts of your body, such as the chest, neck, breasts, abdomen, inner arms, or thighs. Rotating these areas helps ensure even absorption and prevents any single area from becoming overexposed.
Consistency is Key: Use the cream daily for three weeks—typically from day 12 to day 26 of your menstrual cycle if you’re still menstruating. If you’re menopausal, apply it for 21 days straight, followed by a 7-day break.
Take a Break: After three weeks of use, it’s important to take a one-week break. This mimics the natural rhythm of your body’s hormone levels, allowing it to respond more effectively to the cream when you start using it again.
Why Consider Wild Yam?
It’s worth noting that herbal supplements like wild yam are not subject to the same rigorous clinical trials or manufacturing standards as prescription medications. This doesn’t mean they don’t work, but rather that they haven’t been extensively studied in the same way pharmaceuticals have. Many people, however, have found significant relief using natural remedies like wild yam, and its use is supported by a long history of anecdotal evidence.
If, like me, you’re exploring natural alternatives for hormone balance, wild yam could be a valuable addition to your routine. Whether you’re dealing with menopause, PMDD, or other hormonal issues, this natural remedy offers a potential path to relief without the need for synthetic hormones.
I have researched into available creams and many come up quite expensive - you want to look for the cream with wild yam root over extract and it was a bit of a minefield but I managed to find an affordable cream with wild yam root on amazon for £8.99
HERE: https://amzn.to/3z9ySsV
important reminder
While wild yam can be a powerful tool for supporting hormonal balance, it's important to remember that diet and exercise play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, combined with regular physical activity, can greatly enhance the benefits of any natural remedy. If you’re looking for personalised guidance on how to integrate these practices into your life, I’m here to help. As a diet and fitness coach, I can support you in creating a holistic plan that aligns with your health goals. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to explore how we can work together—I'm always happy to chat and help you on your journey to wellness!
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