Unleash the power of nature’s hidden treasure with intoxicating yam. This incredible tuber, also known as Kayos, holds a wealth of health benefits that will leave you amazed. From its unique appearance to its tantalizing taste, this superfood is ready to revolutionize your wellness journey. Join us as we delve into the health benefits of Dioscorea Hispida, its value despite its toxicity, medicinal uses, and more.
What is Kayos or Intoxicating Yam
Kayos, scientifically known as Dioscorea Hispida, is a tropical tuberous root vegetable that belongs to the Yam family. It goes by various names such as Kayos, Winged Yam, and Water Yam. This ancient crop has been cultivated for centuries and is widely appreciated for its nutritional value and unique taste.
In terms of appearance, Dioscorea Hispida boasts an elongated shape with rough textured skin. Its outer layer showcases deep ridges or “wings,” giving it a distinct visual appeal. The color of this tuber can range from pale beige to darker shades of brown depending on maturity.
When it comes to size, Dioscorea Hispida can vary significantly. On average, they measure around six inches in length and two inches in diameter. However, larger specimens weighing up to several pounds have also been found.
Physically speaking, Dioscorea Hispida possesses a firm yet starchy flesh that becomes tender when cooked or roasted. Its texture resembles that of a potato but with a slightly fibrous quality due to the presence of longitudinal fibers running through the tuber.
The taste profile of Dioscorea Hispida is best described as nutty and mildly sweet with hints of earthiness. When prepared properly, it offers a delightful contrast between softness and slight crunchiness.
This versatile plant thrives in tropical regions characterized by warm climates and ample rainfall. It requires well-drained soil for optimal growth and flourishes abundantly under full sun exposure.
As you can see, Dioscorea Hispida is not just your ordinary yam! With its unique appearance, rich flavor profile, and ability to thrive in specific habitats, this nutritious powerhouse definitely deserves a spot on your plate! So let’s dive deeper into the incredible health benefits that await us when we incorporate this superfood into our diet!
Dioscorea Hispida Nutrition Per 100g
Dioscorea Hispida is a versatile root vegetable that offers a range of health benefits. When it comes to nutrition, this tuberous plant packs quite a punch. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional profile of Dioscorea Hispida per 100g.
- Calories: 118
- Carbohydrates: 29.7g
- Protein: 3.2g
- Fat: 0.16g
- Fiber: 2.2g
- Sugar: 1.9g
- Potassium: 469mg
- Phosphorus: 33mg
- Calcium: 27mg
- Magnesium: 22mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Zinc: 0.5mg
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.1mg
Dioscorea hispida is a good source of carbohydrates, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and iron. It is also a good source of vitamin C and vitamin B6.
Here are some of the benefits of the nutrients found in Dioscorea hispida:
- Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. They are also important for the brain and nervous system.
- Protein: Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues. It is also important for the immune system.
- Fat: Fat is essential for storing energy, absorbing vitamins, and protecting organs.
- Fiber: Fiber helps to keep the digestive system healthy. It also helps to lower cholesterol levels and control blood sugar levels.
- Potassium: Potassium is an important mineral for heart health. It helps to regulate blood pressure and heart rate.
- Phosphorus: Phosphorus is important for bone health. It is also involved in many other bodily functions, such as energy production and cell signaling.
- Calcium: Calcium is essential for bone health. It is also important for muscle function and blood clotting.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is important for many bodily functions, such as energy production, muscle function, and blood pressure regulation.
- Iron: Iron is essential for carrying oxygen in the blood. It is also important for the immune system.
- Zinc: Zinc is important for the immune system and wound healing. It is also involved in many other bodily functions, such as protein synthesis and DNA repair.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect the body from damage. It is also important for the immune system.
- Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is involved in many bodily functions, such as energy production, metabolism, and brain function.
Dioscorea hispida is a nutritious food that can be a part of a healthy diet. It is important to note that Dioscorea hispida is a root vegetable and should be cooked before consuming it. Eating raw Dioscorea hispida can cause stomach upset.
It is also important to start with a small amount of Dioscorea hispida and gradually increase the amount as tolerated. This is especially important if you are pregnant or have any underlying health conditions.
If you have any questions or concerns about the nutritional value of Dioscorea hispida, it is best to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.
10 Health Benefits of Dioscorea Hispida and Medicinal Uses
Here are some of the health benefits of Dioscorea hispida:
- Reduces blood sugar levels. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to have hypoglycemic effects, meaning it can help lower blood sugar levels. This is due to its content of diosgenin, a compound that can be converted into insulin.
- Boosts heart health. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can protect the heart from damage.
- Improves digestion. Dioscorea hispida is a good source of fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation. It also contains compounds that can help boost the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
- Relieves pain. Dioscorea hispida has been used traditionally to relieve pain, such as pain from arthritis and muscle cramps. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- May help with weight loss. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and suppressing appetite. It also contains compounds that can help reduce the absorption of fat from the diet.
- Improves skin health. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to improve skin health by reducing wrinkles and age spots. It also contains compounds that can help protect the skin from damage caused by the sun and pollution.
- Boosts energy levels. Dioscorea hispida is a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide the body with energy. It also contains compounds that can help improve mitochondrial function, which is essential for energy production.
- May help with fertility. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to have fertility-boosting effects in women. It contains compounds that can help regulate the menstrual cycle and improve egg quality.
- May help with anxiety and depression. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. It contains compounds that can help reduce stress and improve mood.
- May help with cancer prevention. Dioscorea hispida has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. It contains compounds that can help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Dioscorea hispida, especially if you are taking any other medications or have any underlying health conditions.
5 Side Effects and Disadvantages of Dioscorea Hispida
1. Allergic Reactions: While it is rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Dioscorea hispida. Symptoms can include skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you have a known allergy to yams or other tubers, it’s best to avoid consuming this plant.
2. Digestive Issues: Consuming large amounts of Dioscorea hispida can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea. This is due to its high fiber content and the presence of certain compounds that may be difficult for some people to digest.
3. Interference with Medications: Individuals who are taking medications should exercise caution when consuming Dioscorea hispida as it may interact with certain drugs. It is advised to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating this plant into your diet if you are on any medication.
4. Oxalate Content: Dioscorea hispida contains oxalates which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. If you have a history of kidney stones or are prone to them, it’s advisable to moderate your intake of foods high in oxalates.
5. Blood Sugar Management: Although beneficial for most people in managing blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index, those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely when consuming dioscorea hispida as part of their diet.
It’s important always not overlook potential side effects and disadvantages associated with any food or dietary supplement including dioscorea hispida.
Dioscorea Hispida Toxicity
The toxicity of Dioscorea hispida is due to its content of diosgenin, a compound that can act as an abortifacient and a hormone disruptor. In high doses, diosgenin can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and seizures.
It is important to note that Dioscorea hispida is not regulated by the FDA, so the quality and safety of supplements containing this herb cannot be guaranteed. It is best to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements containing Dioscorea hispida, especially if you are pregnant or have any underlying health conditions.
Here are some other safety concerns associated with Dioscorea hispida:
- It may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications.
- It may cause allergic reactions in some people.
- It is not recommended for children or adolescents.
If you experience any of the following side effects after taking Dioscorea hispida, stop taking it and seek medical attention immediately:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Seizures
- Vaginal bleeding (in pregnant women)
If you are considering taking Dioscorea hispida, it is important to weigh the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
How to Eat Kayos
Dioscorea hispida is poisonous when raw, so it must be cooked before eating. It can be cooked in a variety of ways, including:
- Roasting: This is the most common way to cook Dioscorea hispida. To do this, wash the yam and cut it into thin slices. Spread the slices on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until they are crispy.
- Grating: Grated Dioscorea hispida can be used in soups, stews, and stir-fries. To grate the yam, use a food processor or a box grater.
- Chopping: Chopped Dioscorea hispida can be used in salads, stir-fries, and other dishes. To chop the yam, use a knife or a food processor.
- Juiced: Dioscorea hispida juice can be made by blending the yam with water. The juice can be taken as a drink or used in smoothies.
- Dried: Dioscorea hispida can be dried and then ground into a powder. The powder can be used as a thickener in soups and stews, or it can be added to smoothies and other drinks.
- Canned: Dioscorea hispida can be canned and then stored for later use. The canned yam can be used in soups, stews, and other dishes.
- Fermented: Dioscorea hispida can be fermented to make a variety of products, such as tempeh and natto. These products have a strong flavor and are often used as a source of protein.
- Smoked: Dioscorea hispida can be smoked to give it a smoky flavor. The smoked yam can be used in soups, stews, and other dishes.
No matter how you choose to prepare Dioscorea hispida, it is important to note that it is a root vegetable and should be cooked before consuming it. Eating raw Dioscorea hispida can cause stomach upset.
It is also important to start with a small amount of Dioscorea hispida and gradually increase the amount as tolerated. This is especially important if you are pregnant or have any underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
Dioscorea Hispida is packed with essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can aid digestion, boost immunity, promote heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, and support weight management. Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate certain conditions such as arthritis.
However, it is important to note that there are some potential side effects and disadvantages associated with consuming Dioscorea Hispida, especially its toxic characteristics. These include allergic reactions in some individuals and possible interactions with certain medications. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating new foods into your diet.
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