Yuccas are native to the dry hot lands of the northern and Central America and the West Indies. The name has its origin from the pollination system of the plant. The plat is pollinated through the yucca moth. The
yucca moth is instrumental in
transferring the pollen from the stamen of the plant to the stigma. While doing this, it also lays some eggs which hatch into a larva. The larvae feed on a few seeds leaving behind most to grow into beautiful flowers. The
yucca leaves are sharp and resemble a sword in shape. Yucca plants are grown more as an ornamental plant. Besides, the yucca wood has a low ignition temperature making it an ideal material to start fire with. It is for this reason that yucca plants are in great demand in cold places.
In all there are around forty species of yucca. The yucca has a
sweet flower which is also the state flower of New Mexico. The yucca leaves contain long fiber cells which can be easily pulled out like threads. These threads are used in the manufacture of fiber and ropes. The sisal rope is essentially made from the yucca fiber. Unicorn plant is another variety of the
yucca plant whose fibers are used to weave baskets. The plant produces a cluster of colorful flowers.
Besides being used in culinary items, the yucca root is also believed to have medicinal properties. The
yucca root possesses the ability to cure arthritis pain. Any form of joint pain, muscle pain and pain due to osteoporosis can also be relieved by yucca extracts. The extracts from the yucca root contain the chemical, saponins which has the property of foaming like a shampoo. These are also similar to natural cortisone in consistency and composition and hence are effective anti inflammatory agents. This supports their use for healing colitis, bursitis and any inflammatory condition. Besides,
yucca is also used as a blood cleanser and can be prepared into tea and consumed.
Yucca root extracts are available in the form of a tonic or an ointment, and can also be applied to the skin to cure skin problems like acne vulgaris, pimples and mild rashes. The
yucca extract can also act as an excellent cleanser for the skin and act as soap. The plant products are rich in vitamin A, B, and C as well as minerals like potassium, phosphorus and calcium which in general contribute to good health of the bones and the joints.
