Health Benefits of Yucca Root

American Indian tribes discovered both medicinal and non-medicinal uses for the yucca root---the potato-like root of yucca plants that grow in the dry, sandy areas of the southwestern United States. Yucca root has been widely used as a dye in traditional American Indian arts and crafts. As a food source, yucca root can be mashed and seasoned like potatoes, boiled and drank as a tea, or sliced and added to soups and stews. Some research shows evidence that the yucca root may have positive health benefits.

Reduces Inflammation

• Yucca root contains an active compound called steroidal saponin. This compound has been shown to reduce the stiffness, pain and swelling associated with conditions such as bursitis, gout, arthritis and rheumatism. Studies have not yet proven how much yucca is necessary to attain these benefits, although people have reported relief from pain associated with these diseases.

May Promote Colon Health

• The saponins in yucca roots have been shown to bind with harmful bile acids in the colon. In a study done at the University of Toronto, mice fed saponins were shown to have fewer developing tumors in their colons than those who were not fed the compound. This outcome may also carry over to humans, although more research is needed to prove the yucca's benefits and effectiveness in this area.

May Lower Cholesterol

• Members of the East African Masai tribes have been reported to have low cholesterol levels despite eating a diet very high in saturated fats. This may be attributed to their use of yucca root and other foods rich in saponins. Research has shown that the steroidal saponins in yucca root---in addition to binding with bile acids---also bind with cholesterol and prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream, thus lowering cholesterol levels.

Natural Shampoo

• The yucca root has been used in shampoos, soaps and lipsticks because it is soothing and non-irritating to the skin and has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Make yucca shampoo by pulverizing the pulp of a yucca root and mixing it in a blender with a little water until it's foamy. Shampoo your hair with the mixture as you would with regular shampoo. This method of natural shampooing has been traditionally used by American Indians, and can make your hair shiny and clean without added chemicals.