Health Benefits of Yam (Ratalu), Uses And Its Side Effects

Yam has long been a traditional medicine used in Japan, Korea and China since early ages. It contains cell proliferate and allantoin which speeds up the healing process if applied topically on boils, ulcers and other skin ailments.

Ratalu also known to cure respiratory ailments and relieve cough, bronchial irritation and stimulate health of the respiratory system.

Yam has sufficient amount of vitamin B6 in it, which is necessary by our body to break down homocysteine (a substance which can damage the blood vessel walls). High content of homocysteine can lead to a heart attack if you have comparatively low cholesterol levels. Hence, having vitamin B6 in your body can make it immune to heart diseases.

Ratalu also contains some amount of potassium, this is beneficial as it controls the blood pressure and heart rate by countering hypertensive effects. Yam also prevents hypertension to a certain extent. It also results in reduced blood pressure and increased kidney flow due to the enzymes present in Yam

Yam contains an enzyme which is beneficial for menopausal women. This enzyme provides a natural alternative to hormonal replacement in menopausal women. It supports the endocrine system in females as its root is full of beneficial enzymes.

Ratalu contains vitamin B6 which acts as a substitute to fight symptoms related to PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) which include stomach cramps and mood swings.

Yam has dietary fibres in it, these fibres decrease bad cholesterol and reduce constipation. Ratalu also contains a gracious amount of potassium that helps in healthy digestion and also stimulates contraction of smooth muscle in the stomach. This in turn leads to beneficial bowel habits.

Consuming Yam juice on a regular basis can increase the nutrient absorption of the body. It also protects the enzymes which are needed by the body to create healthier cells and keep the body in good condition. Drinking Yam juice is very useful, as the nutrients are easily absorbed by the body in liquid form.

Yam has the power to increase the memory capacity and the learning capacity of the human brain. According to research, people who consumed Yam for a period of 6 weeks noticed a great change in their cognitive abilities. This is due to the antioxidant compound which is present in Yam. It can also cure Alzheimer’s to a great extent.

Cancer can be very painful and life threatening. In most cases, people lose their lives while battling cancer. It can tear families apart and cancer treatment is very expensive. The treatment of cancer like radiation therapy and chemotherapy itself can be very painful and can cause a huge discomfort. However, consuming Yam on a daily basis can increase the immunity of your body and prevent cancer to a certain extent.

Due to its anti-oxidant qualities, Yam can prevent colon cancer from occurring. The dietary fibre present in Yam can prevent toxic compounds in food from clinging itself to the colon mucosa. Vitamin A present in Yam provides protection from oral cavity cancer and lung cancer.

The vitamins present in Yam can conciliate the metabolic function in one’s body. Yam contains vitamin A which maintains and protects the healthy mucous membranes. Ratalu can also improve vision and plays an important role in bone growth, wound healing, improving immunity and anti ageing.

Yam has a lot of minerals present in it which plays a major role in protecting and increasing the count of the red blood cells in the body. It contains copper and iron which aids in blood circulation inside the body. Yam also contains a sufficient amount of manganese which is used as a co-factor for superoxide dismutase and antioxidant enzymes.