There are around 600 varieties of yams available in the world. Each variety has its own taste, color, and properties. Barbados Yam, Chinese Yam, Yellow Yam, White Yam, Hack Yam, Sweet Yam, and Mozzarella Yam are a few varieties. There are differences between North Indian and South Indian Yam. In the North, Yam will be violet in color, whereas in the South, it is mixed yellow and white. Since each place has a unique shape, color, and taste, it is difficult to find the origin of Yam.
Even though the researchers say that the Yam has been used since B.C. 5000 in Western Africa. The Yam is derived from the West African word “Nyami”. The meaning of the word is “Eatable”. Later, this word is converted to “inhame” by the Portuguese or Spanish. Later, the English word “Yam” was introduced.
95% of Yam is produced in Western Africa. Even today, the Yam is being used as basic food by some people in Nigeria. The Europeans spread this Yam into various places. While getting slaves from Africa, they took this Yam along with them as the basic food for them.
When compared to other tubers, yam has lots of fiber. It will cure constipation and bile. Since it has complex carbohydrates, it will mix with blood slowly. So sugar patients can also consume this food.