In everyday conversation, the word “yam” often brings to mind the orange, sweet, and starchy side dish served at holiday dinners. But in the world of botany and plant-based supplementation, not all yams are created equal. The Wild Yam used in wellness formulas, known scientifically as Dioscorea villosa, is a completely different plant than the sweet potatoes or so-called “yams” commonly found in grocery stores.

This distinction is more than just academic. Understanding the differences between Wild Yam, true culinary yams, and sweet potatoes helps clarify the identity of this unique root and its role in the supplement world.

What Is Wild Yam?

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a perennial vine native to eastern and southeastern North America. It grows in wooded areas, meadows, and along riverbanks, with long, fibrous roots that twist and burrow beneath the surface. This root—the tuberous portion of the plant—is what’s traditionally harvested and prepared in herbalism.

Unlike edible tubers used in cooking, Wild Yam is not consumed as a food crop. Its root is typically dried and ground, then used in capsules, teas, or other botanical preparations. While it shares the name “yam,” it belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family, a group of true yams that differ significantly from common sweet potatoes.

Wild Yam vs. Sweet Potatoes: Different Plants Entirely

Despite the similar name, Wild Yam is not a type of sweet potato. In fact, sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) belong to an entirely different plant family—the Convolvulaceae, or morning glory family.

Sweet potatoes:

• Are cultivated globally as a food crop
• Have smooth or rough skin with orange, purple, or white flesh
• Are known for their sweet flavor and starchy texture
• Are widely used in culinary dishes

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa), on the other hand:

• Is native to North America and used traditionally in non-culinary contexts
• Has a bitter, fibrous root that is not edible in its raw form
• Belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family (true yams)
• Appears in supplement form, not food products

A Root with a Different Role

While sweet potatoes are grown and eaten for nourishment, Wild Yam has historically been part of non-culinary plant traditions, especially in North America. It is most commonly used in supplement form and often included in blends that feature botanical roots, such as black cohosh, dong quai, or red clover. The root of Dioscorea villosa contains diosgenin, a naturally occurring plant compound that has been studied for its structure. 

Why the Name Matters

The distinction between Wild Yam and common yams or sweet potatoes is not just botanical—it’s practical. For those reading supplement labels or researching ingredients, it’s helpful to know that Wild Yam refers to a non-culinary root with a different origin and use. Its presence in a blend isn’t about food—it’s about plants, history, and the continued interest in roots that have stood the test of time.

As always, talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. Get professional advice if you think you might need any wild yam supplement or are already taking one to ensure you’re not exceeding the amounts you may need.