Yucca is a small, evergreen shrub native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. The plant is known for its large flower stalk of white to yellow bell-shaped flowers and lance-like leaves.
Native Americans used the fibrous leaves to make rope, clothing and other textiles and the root to make soap. The same saponins in yucca root that produce suds in water also provide anti-inflammatory qualities. A poultice or paste made of the powdered root may be applied to insect bites, stings and other minor skin irritations.
Yucca root powder may also be tinctured, alone or with other herbs. The powder is also commonly encapsulated as a dietary supplement.
