Chinese Yam Root (Shan Yao) – Tonify Qi, Strengthen Digestion, and Nourish Yin
Balance your energy and nourish your body with Chinese Yam Root, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Shan Yao. This sweet, neutral-toned root is widely used to tonify Spleen Qi, support Lung and Kidney function, and nourish Yin without causing stagnation. Ideal for fatigue, weak digestion, chronic cough, and reproductive support, Chinese Yam is gentle, versatile, and deeply strengthening—used in soups, teas, powders, or capsules for long-term wellness and vitality.
✔ Strengthens Qi & Digestion | ✔ Supports Lungs & Kidneys | ✔ Nourishes Yin Without Dampness
Chinese Yam Root (Shan Yao)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Health Benefits | – Enhances Digestive Function: Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach, improving digestion and nutrient absorption. – Supports Respiratory Health: Tonifies Lung Qi and nourishes Lung Yin, aiding in chronic cough and asthma relief. – Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Exhibits anti-diabetic properties by modulating glucose metabolism. – Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Contains compounds that reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress. – Supports Kidney Function and Reproductive Health: Nourishes the Kidneys and consolidates Jing, beneficial for reproductive health and vitality. |
| Why It Works | Chinese Yam Root contains bioactive compounds such as allantoin, dioscorin, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Allantoin promotes cell proliferation and healing, dioscorin exhibits antioxidant properties, and polysaccharides have immunomodulatory effects. |
| Chinese Medicine Theory | In TCM, Shan Yao is characterized as sweet and neutral, entering the Kidney, Lung, and Spleen meridians. It functions to tonify the Spleen and Stomach, tonify Lung Qi and nourish Lung Yin, and nourish the Kidneys and consolidate Jing, making it effective for conditions like fatigue, weak digestion, chronic cough, and reproductive issues. |
| PubMed Research | – Anti-Diabetic Effects: Studies have shown that Chinese Yam exhibits hypoglycemic effects, aiding in blood sugar regulation. – Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities: Research indicates that compounds in Chinese Yam possess significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to its therapeutic potential. – Estrogenic Effects: Extracts from Chinese Yam have demonstrated estrogen-like effects, potentially beneficial for hormonal balance. |
| How to Use | – Preparation: Commonly consumed in soups, porridges, or as part of herbal formulas. – Dosage: Typically ranges from 9 to 30 grams per day when used in decoction. However, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations. – Cautions: Chinese Yam is generally considered safe for most individuals. However, those with specific health conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before use. |
Note: While Chinese Yam Root offers various health benefits, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Common Name: Chinese Yam Root
Botanical Name: Dioscorea opposita; Radix
Channels/Meridians: Kidney, Lung, Spleen
Other Names: Wild Yam Root
Pin Yin Name: Shan Yao / Huai Shan
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 1 pound
Form: Cut / Sliced, not uniform pieces, Lab Tested, Unsulfured
Dosage: Follow doctors instructions on how to use this herb.
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Lab Tested - Geo-Authentic Herbs
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Should not be taken by itself when there is accumulated dampness in the abdomen.
Naturally Occurring Components: diosgenin, mucilage, choline, starch, sugar, protein, free amino acids, abscisin, vitamin C, amylase
Shop Chinese Yam Root (Shan Yao) to strengthen digestion, tonify Qi, and support lung and kidney function. A nourishing TCM herb for long-term vitality.
Additional Information About Shan Yao
- Tonify Spleen
- Healthy Glucose Support when used with diet and exercise
- Supports Normal Breathing
- Replenishes Qi
- Aids in Digestion
Product Properties: Sweet, Neutral
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly.
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by our in-house lab and independent third party lab. Our in-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatography, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Micro bacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen).
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
Traditional Chinese Herbs encompasses the use of different parts of plants, such as the leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and seeds. These plant parts are often used as a tea, decoctions, extracts, made into capsules or even a footbath. These bulk herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony and balance.
We encourage you to educate yourself on herbs and supplements, by researching reputable sites, and books. Having an open discussion with your physician on what will be most beneficial for your health issues. And lastly discussing interaction of herbs and pharmaceuticals with your pharmacist or physician.
References
Chinese Materia Medica
Jade Remedies by Peter Holmes.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4331973/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16756078/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3866735/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4632431/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24689699/
