Dioscorea esculenta, commonly known as lesser yam, has a rich history of medicinal uses, including being used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, and anti-spasmodic agent, as well as for treating menopausal symptoms and genital organ disorders.

Dioscorea esculenta also known as potato yam, is a food and medicinal plant with a variety of uses, including being a source of carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals, and traditionally used for digestive health and other ailments.

Lesser yam, contains diosgenin, a phytoestrogen that can be converted into progesterone, and has been traditionally used to manage menstrual pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women.

Traditional Uses and Potential Benefits:
Menstrual Pain and PMS:
Some studies suggest that Dioscorea esculenta intake can help improve symptoms of PMS and menstrual pain in young women.
Hormonal Balance:
The diosgenin in Dioscorea esculenta can influence the production of hormones like estrogen and DHEA, which could potentially have certain medical benefits.
Menopause:
Some believe that Dioscorea esculenta may contribute to maintaining bone health during menopause, offering a natural alternative to conventional hormone replacement therapies.

Other Traditional Uses:
In traditional practices, Dioscorea esculenta is used in various forms, such as decoctions, teas, or as part of dietary supplements, to support women’s reproductive health and well-being.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Dioscorea species, including Dioscorea esculenta, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Gastrointestinal Protection:
Some studies suggest that Dioscorea esculenta can have a protective effect on the gastrointestinal system.
Gut Microbiota Regulation:
Dioscorea esculenta may also play a role in regulating gut microbiota.

Dioscorea esculenta (lesser yam) may have some potential benefits related to sexual health, including increased libido and sperm count.

Increased Libido and Sexual Drive:
Some traditional practices and ethnomedicinal uses suggest Dioscorea esculenta can increase libido and sexual drive in both men and women.
Sperm Count and Quality:
Some studies and traditional uses suggest that consuming Dioscorea esculenta can positively impact sperm count and quality.
Hormonal Balance:
The plant contains diosgenin, a compound that has a similar structure to DHEA, a hormone precursor, which may play a role in maintaining hormonal balance.
Antifertility Activity:
Some research suggests that Dioscorea esculenta may have antifertility activity, which is a potential use in contraceptives.

Male Fertility:
Some traditional uses of D. esculenta focus on addressing male fertility issues, with some suggesting it can increase sperm concentration and motility.
Sexual Vigor:
In some cultures, D. esculenta is used as a remedy for sexual vigor or to enhance sexual function.
Anti-inflammatory and Anti-stress:
Beyond its potential sexual uses, D. esculenta is also used traditionally for its antifatigue, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, and immune-boosting properties.

Androgen Hormone Levels:
Studies have shown that D. esculenta intake, combined with resistance training, can normalize the secretion of androgen hormones, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), free testosterone, and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Diosgenin Content:
D. esculenta contains diosgenin, a steroid molecular formula similar to DHEA, which may play a role in restoring serum androgen levels.
Sperm Protection:
Some research indicates that D. esculenta can enhance the ability to protect sperm from oxidative stress, which is important for male fertility.
Metabolic Clearance Rate (MCR):
Studies have shown that improvement in MCR through D. esculenta intake suppresses testicular atrophy and enhances the ability of protection from oxidative stress and inflammation in rats with type 2 diabetes.
Antifertility Activity:
Some research indicates that D. esculenta ethanol extract can inhibit sperm concentration, motility, and testosterone levels, suggesting potential antifertility effects.