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Dioscorea

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Synonyms: Yam, Rheumatism root

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Biological source:

Botanical name: Dioscorea deltoidea and other species like D. villosa D. hispida

Part used:dried rhizome (tuber)

Family: Dioscoreaceae

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Geographical source:

Mainly found in North America, Mexico, India (up to an altitude of 3000 m), Nepal and China.

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Macroscopical features

    • Color: Slightly brownish
    • Odor: odorless
    • Taste: slightly bitter
    • Shape: cylindrical, globose or subcylindrical
    • Size: varies depending on the age of rhizome
    • Other features: soft, fleshy, covered with numerous roots. Irregular fracture

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Microscopical features

  • Cork consist of only few layers
  • Cortex consist of thin walled parenchymatous cells.
  • Stele is composed of numerous close, collateral fibrovascular bundles.
  • Endodermis and pericycle are indistinguishable.

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TS of root of Dioscorea hispida

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Chemical constituents

Contains 4-6 % diosgenin . starch 75%. Also contains sapogenase (enzyme) and phenolic compounds.

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Pharmacological action / Uses

Antirheumatic

Used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Used for production of various steroidal drugs like progesterone.