Chinese Yam
Dioscorea polystachya
Dioscorea polystachya, commonly known as Chinese yam or Lichuan yam, is a traditional plant with origins in East Asia. While its specific uses within traditional medicine are not well-documented, studies have explored its genetic and physiological aspects. Research indicates that directional cultivation can enhance tuber biomass by altering leaf physiology and transcriptome expression, without causing stress to the plant. Additionally, the complete chloroplast genome of Dioscorea polystachya 'Huilou' has been sequenced, revealing a typical tetrad structure with 132 encoded genes, which provides insights into its genetic makeup and potential biosynthetic pathways. The scientific evidence suggests that Dioscorea polystachya does not appear to have significant safety concerns or known drug interactions, though further research is needed to fully understand its potential applications and impacts.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- P. sclerotigenum infection disrupts water-retaining structures and alters carbon-nitrogen metabolism in Lichuan yams.
- The study found that directional cultivation significantly increases tuber biomass in yam by modulating leaf physiology and transcriptome, without inducing stress.
- The complete chloroplast genome of Dioscorea polystachya 'Huilou' was sequenced, revealing a typical tetrad structure with 132 encoded genes.
- The study presents a chromosome-level genome assembly of Chinese yam (Dioscorea polystachya) and identifies genes involved in dioscin biosynthesis.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chinese Yam?
Chinese Yam (Dioscorea polystachya) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Chinese Yam?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Chinese Yam; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: P. sclerotigenum infection disrupts water-retaining structures and alters carbon-nitrogen metabolism in Lichuan yams.
How strong is the evidence for Chinese Yam?
The strongest finding for Chinese Yam carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Chinese Yam safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Chinese Yam in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Chinese Yam interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Chinese Yam in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Chinese Yam a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Leaf physiological and transcriptomic analyses provide insights into the regulatory network underlying high yield in yam under directional cultivation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A haplotype-resolved chromosome-level genome assembly of autotetraploid Chinese yam (Dioscorea polystachya) elucidates dioscin biosynthesis and regulation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Physiological and Metabolic Mechanisms of Penicillium sclerotigenum-Induced Postharvest Rot in Lichuan Yam (Dioscorea polystachya Turcz.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 The complete chloroplast genome of Dioscorea polystachya 'Huilou' (Dioscoreaceae) and its phylogenetic analysis. literature abstract metadata