Category

Herbs & Supplements

Synonyms

Adam's needle, Agavaceae (family), alexin, resveratrol, Yucca aloifolia, Yucca gloriosa L., Yucca recurvifolia Salisb., Yucca schidigera, yuccaols.

Background

Yucca is the common name for the more than 40 species of perennials in the Yucca genus. The plants are well known for their tough, sword-like leaves and a large spike of whitish flowers. They are native to the hot and dry parts of North America, Central America, and the West Indies, although they are popular landscaping plants and can be found worldwide.

There is insufficient evidence in humans to support the use of yucca for any indication. One human study indicates that a blend of Yucca schidigera and Quillaja saponaria extracts may reduce cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic patients. Preliminary studies also indicate that yucca may have antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Evidence

DISCLAIMER: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Hypercholesterolemia: A blend of partially purified Yucca schidigera and Quillaja saponaria extracts may reduce cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic patients. However, additional study is needed in this area, with yucca studied alone.
Grade: C

Tradition

WARNING: DISCLAIMER: The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.
Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, cancer.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older):

There is no proven safe or effective dose for yucca.

Children (younger than 18 years):

There is no proven safe or effective dose for yucca in children.

Safety

DISCLAIMER: Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.

Allergies

Avoid in individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to yucca (Yucca schidigera) or its constituents.

Side Effects and Warnings

There are very few reports of yucca and its adverse effects. Of the available literature, there is some information on contact urticaria (hives) and allergic rhinitis (hay fever) caused by yucca. Use cautiously in patients taking antihyperlipidemia (cholesterol lowering) agents.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Yucca is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence.