USA. Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) Root, Cut and Sifted, Certified Organic Common names: Colic Root, Rheumatism Root, China Root, Devil's Bones, Bansooran, Barbasco, Huang Yao Tzu, Jangali Ratalu, Nyama, Shan Yao, Vajrakanta, Yuma Family: Dioscoreaceae Dioscorea villosa is a tuberous climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves that is native to eastern North America, from Texas and Florida to Minnesota, Ontario, and Massachusetts, growing in moist woods, swamps, and thickets. With support, it can climb to heights of up to 15 feet. Wild Yam was used by Native Americans for pain relief, especially for menstrual cramps and during childbirth. It is valued by herbalists for cramping pains and inflammatory conditions affecting the digestive, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems, as well as the reproductive organs.