The Dioscorea genus: a review of bioactive steroid saponins
Sautour M, Mitaine-Offer AC, Lacaille-Dubois MA
Published in Journal of Natural Medicines
Methodology
Review of phytochemistry and pharmacology of steroidal saponins isolated from Dioscorea species.
Key Findings
Diosgenin and related saponins show antifungal, cytotoxic and lipid-modulating activity in vitro, but human conversion of diosgenin to progesterone does not occur.
Conclusions
Wild yam saponins have pharmacological interest but cannot act as a human precursor to progesterone or DHEA.
Limitations
Preclinical evidence only; no clinical endpoints.
Supplements Studied
Diosgenin and related saponins show pharmacological activity in vitro, but human conversion of diosgenin to progesterone does not occur.
Outcomes Measured
Human conversion of diosgenin to progesterone does not occur.
Diosgenin and related saponins show antifungal, cytotoxic and lipid-modulating activity in vitro, but human conversion of diosgenin to progesterone does not occur.
Study Details
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