Also known as- Yucca glauca (Eastern) Yucca schidigera (Southern) Yucca brevifolia (Western), Soap-tree, Soapweed, Soapwell, Soap Root, and Adam's Needle.

Introduction

Yucca is a succulent that grows throughout the southern United States. Native American tribes used the leaves of the yucca for treating numerous conditions, including psoriasis, dandruff, hair loss, skin sores and inflammation, including joint inflammation due to rheumatism and arthritis. Tribes of the Southwest use the yuccaÍs leaves to make soaps, shampoos and other hygiene related items, including dental floss. In northern New Mexico, healers use a tea brewed from yucca leaves to treat asthma and headaches.
Current research suggests that the saponins in yucca are a precursor to cortisone, which prevents the release of toxins from the intestines that restrict the growth of cartilage, making yucca useful in treating arthritis and other soft tissue inflammatory diseases.

Constituents

saponins that are both water and fat soluble

Parts Used

Root

Typical Preparations

Usually in tea, capsules and as an extract.

Summary

Yucca has many uses in the traditional herbal of many Native American tribes. It has been used to treat both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, a use for which research is providing validation. Even more recently, research suggests that yucca leaf extract may be useful in preventing blood clots.

Health Benefits of Yucca

• Aids in Digestion
• Weight Loss
• Controls Diabetes
• Improves Heart Health
• Boosts Immunity
• Speeds Wound Healing
• Relieves Arthritic Pain
• Improves Cognition
• Antioxidant Properties

Precautions

Yucca appears to be safe at present.

This herb is sold by the Ounce