Rhizome of Airpotato Yam Classic Formulas … Natural Herb Library

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Resolves phlegm and dissipates nodules ... Huang Yao Zi is classically used for goiter, scrofula, and hard masses with a phlegm-fire or toxic-swelling character.
Clears heat and resolves toxicity ... traditional use extends to sore throat, ulcerative swelling, and toxic lesions where hardness and inflammation coexist.
Relieves cough and wheezing when phlegm-heat binds the Lung ... the herb is used more for knotty obstructive patterns than for simple everyday cough.

Goiter and scrofula combinations with Hai Zao, Kun Bu, or Xia Ku Cao ... classic strategy when hard phlegm masses dominate.
Toxic-swelling and throat formulas ... Huang Yao Zi appears when phlegm, heat, and hardness converge in the neck or throat.
Cancer-oriented folk and later integrative traditions ... these help explain the herb's modern notoriety but do not erase the need for toxicology caution.

Traditional herbology describes Huang Yao Zi as bitter, cold, and toxic, entering the Liver and Lung to resolve phlegm, soften hard masses, and clear heat toxin.
Its classic identity revolves around nodules and goiter rather than around tonification, even though the source plant belongs to the broader yam family.