Medicinal Plants : Yucca schidigera

Name

Yucca

Biological Name

Yucca schidigera

Other Names

Yucca

Parts Used

Stalk and root

Active Compounds

The saponins from yucca are the main medicinal agents in the plant. They have both a water-soluble and fat-soluble end and therefore act like soap. The authors of the study looking at patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis speculate that yucca saponins block release of toxins from the intestines which inhibit normal formation of cartilage. An extract of one species of yucca has been found to fight melanoma cells in test tube studies.

History

Native Americans used the soapy leaves from yucca for numerous conditions. Poultices or baths were used for skin sores and other diseases as well as for sprains. Inflammation of all sorts, including joint inflammations, and bleeding were also treated with yucca. Some report that the Native Americans washed their hair with yucca to fight dandruff and hair loss.

Remedies For

Yucca is useful for the treatment of:

cancer
osteoarthritis
rheumatoid arthritis

Scientists have isolated a strong anti-tumor factor from fresh yucca flowers, which disappears when the plant wilts or dies. This was reported in a series of animal tests.

Description

This desert tree grows primarily in the southwestern United States and is related to the Joshua tree. Some of the species can reach a height of 15 - 60 feet whereas others may only reach a few yeards in height.

Dosage

4 capsules of yucca twice daily on an empty stomach for arthritis remedy.

For cancer relief, make a concoction of freshly picked blossoms of yucca with carrot and mixed greens. Whip it in a fruit blender.

Safety

Yucca and other saponins can cause red blood cells to burst (known as “hemolysis”) in test tubes. The level to which this occurs when the saponins are taken by mouth is unknown. However, yucca is approved for use in foods as a foaming agent (particularly in root beer). Since there have been no reports of problems with hemolysis in root beer drinkers, we can assume that yucca herbal supplements are generally safe.

No other information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.