Pharmacological characteristics of a phyto steroidal food saponin: Diosgenin

Diosgenin, a plant derived steroidal saponin found most abundantly in legumes and yams.It has been used for the treatment of various types of disorder such as leukemia, inflammation, hypercholesterolemia and cancer.Besides being a lactation aid, it has been shown to be gastro-and hepato-protective, antioxidant, antidiabetic and vaso-dilatory compound.It is a precursor for production of several steroidal hormones.This review focuses on the pharmacological properties of diosgenin, a food saponin.