Wild Yam
आलुकम्
Alukam (Dioscorea/Yam) belongs to the genus Dioscorea with about 40 species found in India. These are climbing plants with tuberous roots. Various species are eaten — some require detoxification before consumption. The tubers contain Dioscorine alkaloid and Saponins. They are heavy, nourishing and sweet. Some species are used medicinally. They are cooling, strengthen the body and promote semen production. Different varieties are cultivated in different regions. Verses: 60.
What is Dioscorea / Wild Yam (Alukam / आलुकम्)?
Alukam (Dioscorea/Yam) belongs to the genus Dioscorea with about 40 species found in India. These are climbing plants with tuberous roots. Various species are eaten — some require detoxification before consumption. The tubers contain Dioscorine alkaloid and Saponins. They are heavy, nourishing and sweet. Some species are used medicinally. They are cooling, strengthen the body and promote semen production. Different varieties are cultivated in different regions. Verses: 60.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Brimhana (nourishing)
- Balya (strengthening)
- Shukrala (spermatogenic)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
Nishpava (flat beans), Aluka (Dioscorea), leafy vegetables, salt, irregular eating, pungent and sour items, and suppression of natural urges should be given up by a smallpox patient.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 60: Diet for Smallpox (Masurika Pathyapathyam)
Nishpava (flat beans), Aluka (Dioscorea), leafy vegetables, salt, irregular eating, pungent and sour items, and suppression of natural urges should be given up by a smallpox patient.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 49: Diet for Smallpox (Masurika Pathyapathyam)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 60: Diet for Smallpox (Masurika Pathyapathyam); Parishishtam, Chapter 49: Diet for Smallpox (Masurika Pathyapathyam)
References in Sushruta Samhita
The tuber section describes: vidari (Dioscorea) — sweet, cool, strengthening, aphrodisiac.
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 46: Annapana-vidhi Adhyaya - On Food and Drink
The tuber section describes: vidari (Dioscorea) — sweet, cool, strengthening, aphrodisiac.
— Sushruta Samhita, Annapana-vidhi Adhyaya - On Food and Drink
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 46: Annapana-vidhi Adhyaya - On Food and Drink; Annapana-vidhi Adhyaya - On Food and Drink
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.