Wild yam cream contains a compound called diosgenin that can be converted in a lab to produce progesterone and other steroid hormones. Some alternative medicine practitioners claim that applying wild yam cream to the skin can help relieve menopausal symptoms. However, there is limited evidence that wild yam products actually raise hormone levels or provide menopause symptom relief when applied to the skin.
Effects of Wild Yam on Hormones and Menopause
- Although wild yam contains diosgenin, our bodies cannot convert diosgenin from creams into progesterone or DHEA on their own. Conversion only happens in a lab.
- Multiple studies show applying wild yam creams to the skin does not significantly raise hormone levels in the body. Skin absorption of diosgenin is extremely limited.
- Some early research suggested oral wild yam extracts could raise progesterone levels, but those studies had flaws in their methods. More rigorous studies show no effect.
- Despite the lack of evidence, many alternative medicine websites continue marketing creams containing wild yam extracts as natural hormone therapy for issues like menopause, PMS, infertility, low libido, and osteoporosis.
- The North American Menopause Society states that there is no good evidence that wild yam creams, or other bioidentical hormones made from plants, effectively treat menopause symptoms.
Possible Risks and Safety Concerns
Some potential risks and safety issues to consider with wild yam creams:
- Lack of regulation and standardization in many products
- Added hormones may be present but not listed on labels
- Lack of safety data since typically viewed as a "natural" product
Better Supported Options for Menopause Relief
While wild yam creams may not provide menopause relief, other options have more robust backing:
- Hormone therapy with estrogen/progestin remains the most effective treatment for moderate to severe menopause symptoms
- Non-hormonal prescription options can also provide relief in some women
- Lifestyle changes like staying cool, reducing stress, etc. may help mild symptoms
If you have severe or bothersome menopause symptoms, check with your doctor to explore clinically proven and FDA-approved
treatment options. Custom
compounded bioidentical hormone therapy through clinics like
Optimal Hormone Health Center can also be an effective option for some women under medical supervision. Their team includes
specialized pharmacists and doctors focused on optimizing hormone levels and relief for conditions like
menopause.
