Know what the yam elixir is used for and how to take it

Yam is a root widely used in Brazilian cuisine, whether in the form of purees, soups and stews, or fried in the form of chips.

But it’s not just in its fresh form that it’s so popular. The yam elixir is also an old acquaintance of those seeking a healthier life, in a natural and accessible way.

Among the properties of yam elixir are popularly known to fight acne and purify the blood , being widely used in the treatment of boils , for example. It is also often consumed by women who wish to become pregnant as it is known to increase fertility.

Among its advantages we can mention the richness of nutrients in its composition, highlighting the B complex vitamins and folic acid , minerals such as calcium, copper, iron , magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. In addition to being a source of antioxidants.

Yam Elixir: What is it for?

Pharmacist Maria Júlia Pereira Reis states that “yam elixir is a pharmaceutical form, liquid, with a yellowish color, which can be used as an antioxidant in our body, although it can also be used as an analgesic for symptoms of menstrual cramps and musculoskeletal diseases ( arthritis and arthrosis).”

The specialist also informs that the herbal medicine is popularly used for female health in order to regulate hormones, being highly recommended for women in menopause or with health problems related to progesterone.

Progesterone is an essential hormone for the proper functioning of the female body. It is responsible for regulating menstrual cycles and is also essential for pregnancy.

Main benefits of yam elixir

1. It is analgesic and anti-inflammatory

As it is rich in vitamin B6, it helps to increase immunity, regulating cell levels, especially blood levels. Thus, the yam elixir can also act as an adjunct in the treatment of inflammation caused by acne and also act as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory in various health problems.

2. Fight allergies

Among the lesser-known properties of yams is that of combating food allergies , a problem that can cause great inconveniences in the everyday life of the allergic person.

A study carried out at the Faculty of Pharmacy of the Federal University of Minas Gerais indicated that yam can help in the treatment of food allergy, especially due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which enable the reduction of mucus production in the gastrointestinal tract of allergy sufferers.

3. Improves breathing problems

Yam can help improve respiratory function in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

One study found that after consuming yam extract there was an improvement in lung capacity and quality of life in these patients. It was also possible to observe a reduction in dyspnea (difficulty breathing, characterized by short and wheezing).

How to take the yam elixir?

It is recommended to take up to two tablespoons of the elixir, with an interval of twelve hours. Ideally, it should be consumed up to 30 minutes before the main meals (lunch and dinner) and the duration of the treatment should not exceed three months.

Before starting to take the herbal medicine, the patient must undergo a medical evaluation. Only in this way is it possible to guarantee the correct and safe indication, according to the patient’s goals and general health status.

Care and contraindications

Pay attention to the daily amount that will be consumed: it should not exceed three doses. In excess, it can offer adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness.

Some people should completely avoid ingesting the yam elixir. This is the case for pregnant or nursing women. It should also not be consumed by children under 14 years of age.

Much of its contraindication is due to the alcohol present in its composition. And, therefore, in addition to the effects on the digestive system, the patient may also experience drunkenness.