Yucca schidigera is also known as Adam’s needle and bear’s grass, and is a tree native to tropical America, but capable of surviving on dry and infertile soils. Native Americans used the soapy leaves for poultices or baths, against skin sores, sprains, inflammations including joint inflammations, and bleeding. The herb’s active constituents are various saponins, both water- and fat-soluble.
- Anti-arthritic. Studies of patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis show that yucca can be of value in the treatment of these conditions. However, the mechanism of action is not clear. It is thought that the saponins of the herb inhibit the release of certain bacterial endotoxins of the intestine, which are in a position to prevent normal cartilage formation.
- Laxative. The saponins of yucca are associated with a mild laxative effect. This may help explain the traditional use of the herb as a treatment for constipation.
Caution. Saponins can cause hemolysis, that is, the breakdown of red blood cells. At what level this happens for the saponins of yucca is not known. Normal yucca supplements appear generally safe.