Chemical Properties
Several species of yucca are grouped under this name. Y. brevifolia Engelm is a genus of American plants, sometimes
arborescent, having long, pointed, often rigid, fibrous-margined leaves on a woody caudex, and bearing a large particle of white blossoms
(yucca cactus). Yucca tree has a branched trunk and becomes a tree of up to 15 m (50 ft) in height. Plants flower in early spring,
but not every year. The pollination depends on the nocturnal yucca moths (Tegeticula).
Uses
yucca is used in cosmetic formulations for masking odor and protecting the skin against aggressive factors (extreme climates, for example). An extract made from the leaves, stems, and roots of the schidigera variety is also attributed with cleaning and surfactant action. Some studies indicate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant/ free-radical scavenging activity. Yucca’s constituents include phytoestrogen and a high level of saponins. generally, the root or the stalk is the part that is used. However, the flower can also be used and is said to have anti-fungal properties.
Composition
Saponin glycosides consisting of a steroid sapogenin and a sugar have been detected in the roots of yucca.*
