Importance of Yucca Plants

Yucca, an herbal plant found extensively throughout the Southwest United States, is easily identified by its long, rigid leaves. Native tribes historically used yucca for a variety of both medicinal and non-medicinal purposes, according to New Mexico State University. People now use the root and stalk of yucca to treat joint pain.

Uses

• Yucca has been used extensively in the past by Native Americans as food and in the production of soap, dye and yarn. Traditional medicinal uses include blood purification, liver and kidney cleansing and relieving inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Skin sores, sprains and dandruff have also been treated with yucca by Native Americans. Yucca tea created from steeping the roots is the traditional form used although this herb is also available in other forms.

Saponins

• Yucca provides an array of beneficial vitamins and other nutrients including Vitamin A, B-complex and C, calcium, potassium and fiber. Yucca contains high levels of steroidal saponins which cause many biological effects, according to a 2006 review published in the Journal of Inflammation. Including saponins in the diet reduces cholesterol levels in the blood, lowering both total and LDL cholesterol levels. Ongoing studies suggest yucca may play a role in treating cancer though no clinical trials have been completed regarding this use.

Polyphenols

• Yucca bark contains polyphenols such as resveratrol. Resveratrol is a fat-soluble compound that may offer health benefits in the form of reduced cardiovascular disease, extending the lifespan and inhibiting cancer growth. These effects have been noted in test tube studies and animal experiments. Their occurrence in humans remains unclear.

Dosage

• Yucca is available as a powder or tea. Dosage requirements remain unclear. The suggested dosage from some sources for yucca powder in the form of capsules is up to two grams per day. Make yucca tea by boiling seven grams of yucca root in a pint of water for 15 minutes. Drink at least three cups of this tea daily for arthritis relief.

Side Effects

• Yucca causes few to no side effects when taken in recommended amounts, according to the University of California-San Diego. Large quantities cause loose stools and has been shown to cause hemolysis, the bursting of red blood cells, in test tube samples. Hemolysis does not appear to be a concern when yucca is taken by mouth as a supplement or food. Long-term yucca supplementation potentially interferes with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. No known drug interactions with yucca currently exist.

Evidence

• Anecdotal reports indicate a possible role for yucca in treating arthritis and joint inflammation, though research in to the effectiveness of yucca remains limited. Active ingredients in yucca are known to have various beneficial effects on overall health though their use in treating disease is not recommended by conventional medicine.