Dioscorea alata/Purple yams come from the Dioscoreaceae family. This type of yam is native to Africa and Asia. It grows best in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a staple in tropical countries. They are one of over 600 species of yam, but only 15 to 20 are edible. Purple yams contain high levels of antioxidants.‌

Purple yams or ube can be turned into a powder or paste, which is commonly used to color sweet pastries, cakes, and other baked goods. These types of yams are more common in Asian cuisine.

 

Dioscorea alata commonly known as purple yam is actually a species of yam, a tuberous root vegetable. Purple yams are similar to sweet potatoes and are known by several names, including purple yam, greater yam, winged yam, water yam, white yam, purple or white yam, Guyana arrowroot, ten-month yam. However the exact place of origin is unknown it is believed that common yam comes from the islands of Indonesia. The tubers are usually bright lavender in color, hence the common name, but they may sometimes be white. It is sometimes confused with taro and the Okinawa sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas cv. Ayamurasaki), although D. alata is also grown in Okinawa where it is known as beniimo. With its origins in the Asian tropics, D. alata has been known to humans since ancient times.

Purple yam Scientific Classification

Scientific Name: Dioscorea alata

Plant

Purple Yam is a fast-growing, twining, tuberous-rooted, herbaceous perennial vine and is normally about 20-25 meters tall with supporting trees. It is found growing widely in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world and is found growing in fertile well-drained soil. The plant has a tumorous root called yam, often with small axillary tubers as is used as a vegetable. Stems are purplish in color and square-shaped and slippery while green on the stem or leaf. Leaves are large, bright green, and tapered at the end up to 25cm. long, heart-shaped. The veins are marked. Flowers are arranged in clusters, and bloom at irregular times.

Fruit

Purple Yam is an earthly, healthy, and delicious food. Purple yam is a tuber with rough-textured, dark-colored grayish-brown skins and purple flesh. Flesh color may differ from white, yellow, or purple, depending on the variety. Tubers are normally rough-textured, variously shaped from roughly oblong to curvaceously twisted depending on specific varieties. Purple yam is very twisted-looking in appearance and grows on a vine rather than underground. They have a mild sweet taste.

Purple and blue foods are excellent sources of nutrients. These foods derive their shade from the antioxidant Anthocyanin. It is a very energy defense towards cell damage and attacks on your immune system. They are nutritionally similar to other types of potatoes; they are rich in carbohydrates but low in protein and fat. In the Philippines, it is a major vegetable crop and an important source of food. It is abundant in the last months of the year. And this is why during the Christmas holidays, a lot of desserts and snacks in the Philippines are made of purple yam. It is used in a variety of desserts, as well as a flavor for ice cream, milk, Swiss rolls, tarts, cookies, cakes, and other pastries.

History

At the moment, there are over 600 species of yam (Dioscorea spp.) Making it difficult to determine its origin. It is supposed that common yam comes from the islands of Indonesia. Historically, it spread from Asia to the African continent, where it was exported to America through the slave trade. At present, the world’s leading producer in West Africa, followed by Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands, and the Caribbean region.

Health benefits of Purple Yam

Purple Yam is very delicious especially eaten in a condition that is still warm. Most people still assume when Purple Yam is a food village. Currently, Purple Yam not only can be processed into traditional meals. But it is also made into a more modern fare like a pudding of sweet violet, purple yams, rice and purple Yam brownies. Listed below are some of the popular health benefits of Purple yam:

1. Proper blood circulation

Purple pigments contained in the purple Yam are related to conducting the blood circulation in the body. Purple pigments that give color to the meat of the purple Yam are called anthocyanin. As discussed previously, the relationships serve as antioxidants that can absorb air pollution. So any blood clots will not occur and the blood circulation in our body becomes smooth.

2. Better digestion

Fiber and pectin found in purple yam is quite beneficial for proper digestion of the food. Both were helpful in keeping the digestive process in the funnel and digest remain good. So we will be safe from numerous digestive disorders such as hemorrhoids, constipation, and even cancer.

3. Good source of carbohydrates

Purple yam contains a high amount of carbohydrates due to which we can easily replace rice. Beautiful purple color can be used as ingredients for the food coloring.

4. Anti-bacteria

Anti-bacterial activity of purple Yam reach 3.2 times higher than various kinds of blueberries. So including purple yam in your regular diet is quite beneficial for overcoming all the bacterial problems.

5. Overcoming Asthma

Asthma is not a disease it can be cured, it often declines with routinely consuming purple Yam. Asthma occurs due to pulmonary organs that are difficult to expand. By consuming purple yam on a regular basis, asthma will be cured and does not recur.

6. Low calorie

Purple Yam or yellow sweet potato has 112 calories without the fat and cholesterol content of sodium. Normally purple Yam is consumed by boiling or steaming which increases its sweet taste but the calories remain low.

7. Add the weights of the body

Purple Yam consists of complex carbohydrates and also has a sweet taste which can help to add weight to your body. Certainly not just consume the purple yam regularly but also comes with exercise and sports. Then the muscles can be formed and your weight will increase effortlessly.

8. Anti-Cancer

Purple yam has 2.5 times higher antioxidant activity compared to different types of blueberries. Because of its higher antioxidant activity, it can help to control the cancer cells in the body. Additionally, selenium and iodine content in the purple yam is 20 times higher than other types of Ubi. Thus it is quite helpful for overcoming cancer.

9. Processed into a variety of healthy dishes

Apart from boiled Yam and fries, the beautiful purple color of purple yam can be used as a natural dye. A wide variety of healthy foods can be made from sweet violet color. We can find numerous recipes where purple yam can be used.  Purple Yam can be quite delicious and healthy addition in your food.

Now, when we dive down to the list of various health benefits of Ube (purple yam), the list is almost endless. Let us check out some of the health benefits of Ube (purple yam) in this section.

One of the best health benefits of ube (purple yam) is that it helps in improving blood circulation. Being loaded with minerals, especially potassium, ube is known to be beneficial for improving the circulation of the blood. Good blood circulation makes it sure for optimal distribution of nutrients as well as oxygen for fair and healthy body metabolism.

Another health benefit of ube or purple yam is that it prevents the accumulation of blood clots. Anthocyanin is a compound that is found in ube and is responsible for preventing the accumulation of blood clots in the artery and veins so as to improve the healthy circulation of blood.

Ube (purple yam) is also known to manage cholesterol levels. It is loaded with fiber and this could help bind the LDL or the bad cholesterol and wash it away from the body. Moreover, being a rich source of beta-carotene it could also help in making sure that there is an optimal production of HDL or good cholesterol.

The dietary fiber found in ube is beneficial in reducing constipation and also decreases the LDL or the bad cholesterol. It contains a fair amount of potassium in it which helps in healthy digestion⁽²⁾ and it stimulates smooth muscle contraction in your stomach which helps you in having good bowel habits. By having proper bowel habits, constipation along with other digestive conditions such as diarrhea and hemorrhoids can also be treated.

Ube (purple yam) is a wonderful source of carbohydrate which is the primary source of energy. So, adding ube to your regular diet in a moderate amounts is quite recommendable if you are looking for some fair energy.

Ube treats asthma naturally. Studies have shown that there is a link between consuming ube or purple yam and the reduction of symptoms of asthma.

Being low in calorie content, ube (purple yams) can be a great source of energy and a wonderful replacement for staple foods such as rice and potatoes which are rich in calories.

Ube or purple yam also contains potent antioxidant properties and these antioxidants are beneficial in fighting free radicals. Moreover, they also have anti-inflammatory properties in.

Yet another health benefit of ube (purple yam) is that it comprises anticancer agents and this is great at preventing the cancerous cells’ development. The beta-carotene and vitamin C content found in it also works great to get rid of cancer-friendly free radicals.⁽³⁾ Moreover, ube even contains selenium and iodine, which is known to overcome cancerous cells.

Ube (purple yam) is also good for weight loss. They are rich in fiber content and this helps in healthy digestion and also the low-calorie content prevents you from gaining weight. Moreover, the fiber present in ube also helps in gaining enough energy.

Ube (purple yam) is an excellent source of protein and it could thus be a portion of great food for vegetarians and vegans who are willing to take protein-rich foods in their diet. The protein content found in ube makes it beneficial for building body cells and tissues.

One of the finest health benefits of ube (purple yam) is its heart health benefits. It is known that foods which are high in potassium are great for the heart. And ube is packed with potassium and it is even low in sodium as well as calories. So, it is a great food for heart health.

Ube is a natural source of vitamin A and beta-carotene and these two make a perfect combination of nutrients that are essential for the human body. So, it is great to add this root vegetable to your diet in a moderate amount.

Ube (purple yam) is good at slowing down cognitive decline. It is not only good for children but also for elders as the presence of beta-carotene in it can be beneficial at slowing down the cognitive decline in elderly people.

Ube (purple yam) contains a rich source of calcium in it and this is highly essential for the growth as well as development in children. Apart from this, the purple color of this starchy root vegetable, make children love it more.

Ube (purple yam) is good at managing diabetes. It is healthy for diabetics because if it is low in sugar and calories but quite high in carbohydrates. Ube or purple yam can be a good source of energy while dietary fiber makes sure that no sugar spike might occur.

Ube (purple yam) is also known to have another health benefit, and that is, it benefits in improving your immunity. The vitamin C content found in ube makes it a wonderful immunity booster. Moreover, being an excellent and tasty food, it is a great food to be consumed during illness for accelerating the process of recovery.

One of the finest health benefits of ube (purple yam) is that it is great for your bones as well as teeth health. Being loaded with minerals such as calcium as well as manganese, ube is a natural solution for preventing bone problems like osteoporosis which is a condition that is most likely to occur in senior or elderly people. So, adding ube or purple yam can help you protect yourself from osteoporosis. It also prevents stiff joints and joint pains. Apart from bone health, ube also helps in promoting the grown and development of good teeth.

Ube (purple yam) is also good for Reproduction. This is because of the presence of beta carotene and vitamin A content. Beta-carotene promotes healthier and stronger sperm.

Ube (purple yam) is also a great source of folate and is thus very much important and quite safe for pregnant women if consumed in moderation.

One of the best health benefits of ube (purple yam) is that it helps in improving mood. The presence of vitamin C in ube is known to be helpful in increasing your mood. Vitamin C stimulates the production of norepinephrine or neurotransmitters, which offers a great impact on your mood. Moreover, it even has got some wonderful benefits for brain functioning.

In addition, because of the presence of vitamin B6, the brain produces hormones like norepinephrine and serotonin, or the two potential chemicals that aids in promoting mood and also help in the production of melatonin, which is required by the body for regulating the internal clock and this, in turn, helps in making you sleep well in the night and make you feel awake in the next morning.

Ube (purple yam) is a potential vegetable for good eye health. This is because the presence of vitamin A is beneficial for the eye or vision. Beta-carotene might act as pro-vitamin A for preventing cell degeneration that could affect your eyesight or vision.

One of the most important health benefits of ube (purple yam) is its skin health benefits. Being loaded with vitamin C and E, ube or the purple yam is great for skin health. Antioxidants present in the starchy root vegetable surely make an optimal regeneration of the skin cells for promoting healthy skin. These antioxidants even help your skin protection from the harmful effects of UV radiation and thus ube act as a natural sunscreen. Ube or the purple yam is also beneficial in offering you anti-aging benefits.

Ube or purple yam has got anti-aging benefits. The skin-friendly nutrients found in ube, such as beta carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and antioxidants, altogether help in preventing aging signs such as wrinkles and fine lines.⁽⁴⁾

Ube (purple yam) is not only great for body or skin but also an excellent source for promoting hair health. It helps in promoting the growth of healthy hair as well as prevents the loss of hair significantly.

How to Eat

• Purple yam is used in a variety of desserts, as well as a flavor for ice cream, milk, Swiss rolls, tarts, cookies, cakes, and other pastries.
• In the Philippines, it is known as ube and is often eaten boiled or as a sweetened jam called ube halayá; the latter is a popular ingredient in the iced dessert called halo-halo.
• Serves as an essential element while cooking the famous Gujarati mixed vegetable dish-Undhiyu.
• Purple yam flour is a widely used food material and is utilized in preparing dehydrated food products.
• Purple yam papad is an essential food supplement in the Indian dietary context.
• Stir-fried chips are eaten during religious fasting in Maharashtra.
• Purple yam is an essential ingredient in Undhiyu.
• Purple yam is a popular dessert in Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
• Ube is now making a scene in the American foodie trend. It is now being used to make ube truffles, ube Leche flan cupcakes and ube donuts.
• Tubers may also be pounded to produce flour or starch.

Traditional benefits and uses of Purple yam

• The presence of a high level of Vitamin B6 in Purple yam reduces depression among women.
• The pace of converting the carbohydrates present in Purple yam into sugar is very sluggish, hence, helps to curb the increase of blood sugar levels in the human body.
• Purple yam elements prove beneficial for human urinary, respiratory and nervous systems.
• The high manganese content in Purple yam increases the energy level in the human body.
• Purple yam has been used as a vermifuge and laxative in various healing practices.
• It is widely known for curing burned hemorrhoids, fever, gonorrhea, tumors, leprosy, and many more.
• Solves a number of digestive problems.
• Controls high blood pressure impacts.
• Provides relief in muscle tension, nerve tension, neuralgia, and cramps.
• Powdered tubers are used as a remedy for piles, gonorrhea, and applied externally to sores.
• Tuber paste applied on cancerous wounds; used for leprosy, gonorrhea, skin diseases, and high blood pressure in Assam.
• Used to treat diarrhea, frequent urination, cough, diabetes mellitus, burns, and scalds.
• It is used to treat diarrhea, fortify the spleen and kidneys in Traditional Chinese medicine.
• It is used to relieve dysmenorrhea.
• The tuber contains allantoin, a cell-proliferant that speeds the healing process.
• The tuber is used internally in the treatment of tiredness, weight loss, poor appetite, poor digestion, chronic diarrhea, asthma, dry coughs, frequent or uncontrollable urination, diabetes, and emotional instability.
• It is applied externally to ulcers, boils, and abscesses.
• It is also used in stimulating estrogen as well as providing many other benefits.

Other Facts

• Purple Yam is used as an ornamental plant for its beautiful leaves.

Uses of purple yam

Edible food

Purple yam is mostly used in food as an important source of carbohydrates. Purple yam is mainly consumed in Asia and the U.S., while other species like D. rotundifolia and D. bulbifera are typical of Africa. However, in some areas where it is common, this tuber has been displaced the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) and cassava (Manihot succulent), plants with a lower cost of cultivation.

Fodder

Extra tubers can be used to produce animal feed, though their use is rare due to the high cost of cultivation. The skins resulting from production processes such as yam flour or other products are used for the manufacture of feed for cattle.

Production of fructose

Recently, yam is being researched for manufacturing fructose sweeteners. This is due to the rising price of corn and sugar cane produced by demand for ethanol fuels made from them. Yam provides good taste and for the production of fructose.

Production of pharmaceuticals

Only wild yam (D. villosa) and two cultivated species (D. Composite and D. floribunda) are rich in steroid saponins, which through laboratory processes are converted into raw material for manufacturing oral contraceptives, hormone, and cortisone. The winged yam is not used for such purposes as its medicinal content is lower.

Production of bioplastics

From yam starch polylactic acid is obtained, which is used to make biodegradable plastics and suture material.

How to Select

Purple yams are sold fresh in supermarkets or wet markets. Select that are firm and do not have any cracks, bruises or soft spots. Avoid those that are shown in the refrigerated section of the produce department since cold temperature negatively alters their taste.

Culinary Uses

• Purple yam is used to make use of powder, which is a starchy substance added as an ingredient to sweet baked goods, cakes, ice cream, jams, and curries.
• All varieties of the purple yam are used to make both sweet and savory dishes as well as ground starchy substances used as flavorings and ingredients for other foods.

How to Store

Purple Yams should be stored in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place where they will keep fresh for up to ten days. They should be stored loose and not kept in a plastic bag. Keep them out of exposure to sunlight since this will cause them to sprout or ferment. Uncooked purple yams should not be kept in the refrigerator.

Purple yam Facts

Purple yams are similar to sweet potatoes and are known by several names, including violet yams, tubes, and water yams. Purple yams, or Dioscorea alata, are nutritionally similar to other types of potatoes; they are rich in carbohydrates but low in protein and fat. Purple Yam is an earthly, healthy, and delicious food. Purple yams are tubers with grayish-brown skins and purple flesh. They taste sweet and a variety of a true yam, which is known as “ube” or “ubi” in the Philippines. It has rough-textured, dark-colored skin and a light purple-colored flesh. Purple yam is very gnarled looking in appearance and grows on a vine rather than underground. It has swollen roots or tubers corms, which are formed from the vines, leaves, roots, and stolons of the plant. It is abundant in the last months of the year. And this is why during the Christmas holidays, a lot of desserts and snacks in the Philippines are made of tube.

References

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