What Is Wild Yam Cream Used For?

In the 1960s, Mexican wild yam was used to chemically produce progesterone, and this has led to the misconception that the wild yam contains bio-identical hormones. Now, there are a number of wild yam creams on the market sold for the treatment of many of the symptoms associated with menopause. Because the conversion of wild yam to progesterone took place in the laboratory, there's no guarantee that the human body has the same ability. However, that doesn't stop women from buying this cream and using it for the relief of their menopause symptoms.

Menopause symptoms

The menopause symptoms that wild yam cream is supposed to relieve are numerous. Hot flashes, migraines, cramps, insomnia and vaginal dryness are just a few of the conditions this "natural progesterone" cream is purported to alleviate. For women who have experienced the negative side effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) while treating menopause symptoms, the lack of those side effects is akin to a miracle.

Replaces negative HRT side effects

The problems associated with the traditional menopause treatment of hormone replacement therapy (HTR) are in many cases life-threatening. The 2002 July issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association reported the findings of an eight-year-long study on HRT. The study was canceled early due to the dangers to the participants. While incidences of colon cancer and hip fractures reduced significantly, risks of breast cancer, heart attacks, stroke and blood clots rose alarmingly.

Usage

Proponents of wild yam cream advise liberally smoothing the cream into the skin of the abdomen, inner thighs, breasts and arms. Because the cream is moisturizing, you should also apply it to your face, neck and upper chest. The cream is absorbed directly into the bloodstream along with the "natural progesterone" your body needs.

Other benefits

Depending on which proponents of wild yam cream you listen to, the cream provides relief for a number of conditions. It is supposed to relieve general inflammation, sciatic nerve pain and insomnia. It is also an antispasmodic, which is beneficial for providing relief of menstrual cramps and pregnancy-associated nausea.

Cautions

Although science has not verified the effectiveness of wild yam cream, there is much empirical data to support its use during menopause. Therefore, if you are looking for a natural way to treat the symptoms of menopause, there is no evidence of harmful side effects. However, if you are taking birth control, wild yam contains disgenin, which can react with the estriol in some birth control, causing it to be ineffective.