Yucca's therapeutic uses
Yucca, a natural plant product, is recognized for its potential therapeutic uses, particularly in addressing various health conditions. Traditionally utilized by Indigenous Americans and early settlers as food, yucca is noted for its high saponin content, which lends itself to uses in personal care products like shampoos and soaps. Research suggests that yucca may alleviate symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, although the evidence remains limited and primarily from preliminary studies. Additionally, yucca is thought to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially aiding in skin health, digestive health, and immune function. Some studies indicate it may help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and lower blood pressure, although human trials are necessary to confirm these effects. While considered generally safe when used as food, excessive consumption can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, and certain populations—such as children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with severe liver or kidney disease—should approach its use with caution. Overall, yucca remains a subject of interest for its diverse potential health benefits.
Yucca's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, blood pressure, skin health, digestive health, cholesterol
Overview
Various species of yucca plants were used as food by Indigenous Americans and early California settlers. Yucca contains high levels of soapy compounds known as saponins, which make it a useful natural shampoo and soap.
Therapeutic Dosages
The standard dosage is 2 to 4 tablets of concentrated yucca saponins daily.
Therapeutic Uses
One double-blind, placebo-controlled trial reported in 1975 concluded that the use of yucca reduces arthritis symptoms (both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis). However, this study was highly preliminary in nature, and, while yucca has been determined to have anti-inflammatory effects, there has been limited subsequent confirming evidence in human trials. Still, more recent studies, such as those completed in 2014 and 2018, have shown yucca can aid in pain, stiffness, and limited joint function.
Animal and test-tube studies suggest that various yucca extracts may have antiviral, antifungal, antiprotozoal, and antibacterial effects. Still, no human trials have been reported for potential uses based on these actions. Yucca is believed to increase immune function due to its high vitamin C and antioxidant concentration. It is being studied for its potential to protect cells from mutating. Yucca also has benefits for skin health and is highly photoprotective. The high levels of folic acid in yucca may be beneficial to eye health. A 2013 study on mice showed yucca could regulate blood sugar and reduce glucose levels, making it an option for supplementation in treating diabetes. Human trials are necessary to confirm these findings. Yucca extracts are also widely used to enhance the foaming effect of carbonated beverages.
There are several other proposed therapeutic uses for yucca. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and skin disorders. Because it is rich in antioxidants, yucca may protect against free radicals, which cause chronic disease. Yucca may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It may also aid in digestion by combating constipation and bloating.
Safety Issues
Yucca is generally accepted as safe based on its long history of use as food. However, it sometimes causes diarrhea if taken in excess. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established. Yucca may have slight estrogen-like actions, and for this reason, it should not be taken by women who have had breast cancer. Yucca should not be taken for more than three months consecutively, and it may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Bibliography
McAllister, T. A., et al. "Studies on the Use of Yucca schidigera to Control Giardiosis." Veterinary Parasitology, vol. 97, 22 May 2001, pp. 85-99.
Miyakoshi, M., et al. "Antiyeast Steroidal Saponins from Yucca schidigera (Mohave Yucca), a New Anti-Food-Deteriorating Agent." Journal of Natural Products, vol. 63, no. 3, 2000, pp. 332-338.
Wang, Y., et al. "Effect of Steroidal Saponin from Yucca schidigera Extract on Ruminal Microbes." Journal of Applied Microbiology, vol. 88, no. 5, 2000, pp. 887-896.
Wilson, Debra Rose, and Ana Gotter. "The Health Benefits of Yucca." Healthline, www.healthline.com/health/health-potential-of-yucca. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
"Yucca: Can it Relieve Arthritis Pain?" Augusta Health, 11 July 2020, www.augustahealth.com/answer/yucca-can-it-relieve-arthritis-pain. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
"Yucca: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions." RxList, www.rxlist.com/supplements/yucca.htm. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
"Yucca – Health Information Library." PeaceHealth, 12 May 2015, www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2191008. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.