Parts Most Frequently Used: Roots, Tubers

Flavors/Temps: Sweet, Neutral

Caution: Not recommended if excess damp or stagnation is present.

History/Folklore: The name “Dioscorea” is dervived from the Ancient Greek physician and botanist Dioscorides. Use raw to tonify Yin, dry-fry to strengthen the Spleen. Steroidal saponins can be converted through a series of chemical reactions into steroid hormones used in medicine and contraceptives. Good quality yams are thick, firm, powdery and have a clear white cross section. Chinese Yams lower blood-sugar and are therefore used to treat diabetes. Because the Kidney system in TCM is associated with congenital health and fertility, and the Spleen system is associated with acquired health through food and digestion, the herb is considered a foundation tonic herb for good health and development. It is rare for one herb to strengthen both Congenital and Acquired Qi. Traditionally, yams from Henan (Huaiqing) are believed to have the highest medicinal properties and nutritional qualities. Thus, these yams are often called “Huai Shan Yao.” Yams are usually harvested after the frost’s descent in the Chinese 18th solar term. Chinese Yams have long been considered by the Chinese to be an excellent herb for promoting longevity, helping prevent cardiovascular problems, building Blood (Xue), increasing appetite, improving fertility (including increasing sperm count) and lowering blood sugar levels.

Chinese Yams are considered to have gentle, though powerful, therapeutic properties and can therefore be used safely by all ages.

The vine is considered to be quite aggressive, taking over everything within reach, so be aware if you decide to plant any in your garden.