What Are Bioidentical Hormones? 

Bioidentical hormones are compounds that are structurally identical to the hormones your body makes. Unlike synthetic hormones, which are chemically different, bioidentical hormones fit your body’s receptors like a perfect key.

The starting point for most BHRT? Plants. Specifically: 

Safest Natural Sources of Bioidentical Hormones 

1. Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)

• Contains a compound called diosgenin, which can be converted in a lab into progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, or DHEA.
• Commonly used for making micronized progesterone, one of the most widely accepted bioidentical hormones.
• ✅ Safe as a base ingredient, especially when compounded into precise prescriptions. 

Common Bioidentical Hormones Made from Plants 

• Micronized Progesterone (from wild yam) → Supports sleep, mood, bone health, and balances estrogen.
• Estradiol & Estriol (from soy or yam) → Gently relieve hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
• Testosterone (from soy or yam) → Helps with energy, muscle strength, libido, and focus.
• DHEA (from soy or yam) → A precursor hormone that supports resilience, mood, and healthy aging. 

Are Bioidentical Hormones Safe? 

Consult with your hormone specialist or PCP Because they are molecularly identical to your body’s own hormones, bioidentical hormones are often better tolerated than synthetic versions. Still, “natural” doesn’t mean risk-free. BHRT should always be:

• Personalized → based on your lab testing and symptoms
• Monitored → with regular follow-ups to adjust dosage
• Supported → with lifestyle, nutrition, stress management, and sleep habits

At our clinic, we use advanced hormone testing such as ZRT Labs and the DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) panel to measure hormone levels, metabolites, and adrenal function. This allows us to design truly individualized treatment plans for patients. 

The Takeaway 

The safest natural sources for bioidentical hormones are wild yam and soybeans. Through careful processing, these plants provide the foundation for customized therapies that can help you feel more like yourself again.

Thanks to telehealth services available in all 50 states, you can now access functional healthcare providers and BHRT expertise from the comfort of your home—no matter where you live.

If you’re curious whether BHRT is right for you, schedule a telehealth consultation with our functional health team. We’ll review your symptoms, order comprehensive hormone testing (ZRT or DUTCH panels), and create a plan that’s personalized for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.