The extracts of Wild Yam contain a chemical called diosgenin, which can be converted in the laboratory to progesterone. The idea is that, as a natural source, this may be better than a synthetic form of progesterone. But unfortunately diosgenin cannot be converted to progesterone in the human body. So the whole premise of how this 'natural' form of HRT works is flawed. If only oestrogens are taken, there is an increased risk of cancer of the womb.
Progesterone causes changes in the lining of the womb which protect it from cancer.
In order to do this you would have to put on very large amounts of progesterone cream. As Wild Yam extracts cannot even be converted into progesterone, it is unlikely to give any protection against womb cancer. Visit our extensive Ask the Doctor library of all previously asked questions and answers covering a wide range of topics. Full A to Z listing Category listing Keyword Search using the box on the right . The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites.