Limited evidenceJoints & skin

Yucca

A saponin-rich desert root long sold for arthritis. The anti-inflammatory chemistry is real, but the human evidence is one small trial from decades ago plus reviews; most modern research is in livestock.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

Arthritis symptom relief Limited evidence
A review of Yucca schidigera describes steroidal saponins and stilbene polyphenols with anti-inflammatory activity and cites an old, small and poorly reported clinical trial in arthritis. No modern randomized placebo-controlled trial exists in humans.
Antioxidant and gut effects Limited evidence
An updated phytochemistry and pharmacology review confirms antioxidant, antiprotozoal and urease-inhibiting activity, mostly demonstrated in vitro and in animal feeding studies where yucca is used to reduce ammonia in manure.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo validated human dose. Capsule labels commonly give 400–1,000 mg of root powder once or twice daily; the saponin content of commercial products is not standardized.

SafetySaponins are irritating to the gut lining and can cause nausea, cramping and diarrhoea, especially at higher doses or with long-term use. They may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Scientific references

Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of Yucca schidigera: a review
Cheeke PR, Piacente S, Oleszek W — J Inflamm (Lond), 2006
Yucca schidigera Roezl ex ortgies (Mojave yucca): an updated review of its phytochemistry, ethnopharmacological, and pharmacological properties
Ghallab DS, Mustafa R, Mostafa SR — Nat Prod Res, 2025

Where to buy

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