Wild Yam Side Effects and BenefitsFacts and Information Mexican wild yam became popular (around 1960's) when manufacturers used it to made DHEA and various hormones.The active ingredient diosgenin, found in yam, was chemically converted to DHEA and various steriods. However, our body cannot perform this conversion. Up to today, people still believe that taking this herb would allow our body to make more DHEA and thus increase our sex hormone levels. Many companies market this herb as being a "natural DHEA". This herb is commonly marketed to help in the treatment of menopause symptoms. What are the side effects? There are very few reported side effects or dangers. Clinical studies showed that using high dose of this herb in pills, extract or tincture formulations caused only minor stomach upset in some people.As well, some of the cream formulations were reported to cause minor rash and skin irritation in a very small number of people.
There are also clinical studies showing that the cream, lotion or gel formulations worked no better than a placebo cream. If you want to take this herb to increase your DHEA blood levels, you are better off taking DHEA supplements. 
Evidence of Benefits (Leaf Rating System)
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