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Yucca

Uses

Botanical names:
Yucca schidigera, Yucca spp.

Parts Used & Where Grown

This desert tree grows primarily in the southwestern United States and is related to the Joshua tree. The stalk and root are both used in herbal medicine.

What Are Star Ratings?

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for Why
1 Star
Osteoarthritis
Refer to label instructions
Yucca contains saponins, which appear to block the release of toxins from the intestines that inhibit normal cartilage formation. In doing so, yucca may reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.

According to arthritis research, saponins found in the herb appear to block the release of toxins from the intestines that inhibit normal formation of cartilage. A preliminary, double-blind trial found that yucca might reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis. Only limited evidence currently supports the use of yucca for people with osteoarthritis.

1 Star
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Refer to label instructions
Yucca, a traditional remedy, is a desert plant that contains soap-like components known as saponins. Yucca tea is often drunk for relief of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

, a traditional remedy, is a desert plant that contains soap-like components known as saponins. Yucca tea (7 or 8 grams of the root simmered in a pint of water for 15 minutes) is often drunk for symptom relief three to five times per day. The effects of yucca in the treatment of people with RA has not been studied.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

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. It is also reported that Native Americans washed their hair with yucca to fight dandruff and hair loss.

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PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.