CORN SILK

Dave
Mar 30, 2023
4 min read

Updated: Apr 8

Corn Silk

Botanical Name

Zea mays

Common Name

Corn silk, barba de choclo, mais

Family

Poaceae

Parts Used

Flower styles and stigmas

Native To

Mexico

Harvesting Guidelines

Corn silk is best harvested before the corn kernels are fully formed, though it remains useful even after the corn has matured. The silk is gathered by pulling it gently from the top of the ear of corn, being careful not to damage the plant. Ideally, the harvest should take place on warm, dry days to avoid moisture content that could compromise the plant’s medicinal properties. Whether for personal use or larger-scale harvest, it is important to ensure that the corn is grown organically, without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.

Corn silk, the long, silky fibers that emerge from the tops of ears of corn, has a long history of medicinal use. Corn (Zea mays) itself is one of the most ancient and important crops in the Americas, first domesticated by Indigenous peoples in Central Mexico over 9,000 years ago. The silk, which is the stigma of the corn flower, has been utilized in various cultures for its gentle but effective medicinal properties, particularly in treating urinary and renal health issues.

In many Indigenous traditions, corn silk has been used for a variety of purposes. For example, the Qollahuaya people of the Andes have traditionally used corn silk as a diuretic, while the Yaqui people of Pascua Village in Arizona combine corn silk with chili peppers and tobacco to create a smoke that is blown into the ear to alleviate earaches. These examples show the diversity of corn silk's applications across different cultures and illustrate how it has remained a valuable plant for supporting human health. The versatility of corn silk as both a remedy and part of cultural practices is a testament to its enduring significance.

Known for its soothing and cooling properties, corn silk is often used in the treatment of urinary tract conditions. It is particularly useful in conditions such as cystitis, bladder inflammation, and urinary retention, and is often used to treat children with bladder issues due to its gentle action. It is also an excellent remedy for balancing excessive heat in the body, as its cooling nature can help alleviate the discomfort of conditions like edema and cystitis, especially those associated with kidney or heart problems.

Throughout history, corn silk has been employed by various cultures for its health-promoting properties. In addition to being used as a diuretic, it has been traditionally used to treat conditions such as cystitis, bladder inflammation, and urinary retention. In parts of Europe, it was used for treating kidney stones and for managing high blood pressure. In North America, its use expanded into folk medicine where it was considered a valuable remedy for bladder disorders, including for children with bedwetting problems.

In recent years, scientific studies have supported these traditional uses. Corn silk contains a number of beneficial compounds, such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. These compounds also contribute to its ability to protect the urinary system and reduce oxidative stress. Several clinical studies have shown that corn silk can significantly improve the symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and promote the dissolution of urinary stones.

One study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that corn silk, in combination with other herbal remedies, effectively reduced bacterial growth and inflammation associated with UTIs. Another study conducted on rats demonstrated corn silk’s potential in protecting kidney function, particularly in cases of chemically induced kidney damage. These studies underscore the traditional use of corn silk and its scientific validation in modern herbal medicine.

Spiritual and Energetic Uses

Corn silk also holds spiritual significance, especially among Indigenous cultures. It is seen as a symbol of fertility, abundance, and connection to the Earth. Corn itself is revered as a sacred plant in many Native American traditions, representing sustenance and life. Corn silk, in particular, is viewed as a protector of the urinary system, offering physical and spiritual cleansing. Its gentle and nurturing nature is thought to soothe both the body and the spirit, providing comfort during times of stress or illness.

Adult Dose (5)

Infusion: 1 cup (2 tsp fresh or dried herb per 8 fl oz boiled water) 3 times per day
Tincture: 1-4 mL fresh herb (1:3, 95%) or dried herb (1:5, 60%) 4 times per day

Safety

There are no known safety concerns for corn silk when used appropriately. It is a mild herb and is considered safe for most people. However, those with known allergies to corn or corn-related products should avoid its use. Pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely use corn silk in moderate amounts as a food or medicinal herb. Always consult a healthcare provider before using medicinal herbs if you are on prescription medications.

Actions

Anodyne,Antiinflammatory,Antilithic,Antiseptic,Astringent,Demulcent,Diuretic,Hypotensive,Nutritive,Vulnerary

Energy

Neutral

References:

Painter, M. (1986). With Good Heart: Yaqui Beliefs and Ceremonies in Pascua Village (E. Spicer & W. Kaemlein, Eds.). University of Arizona Press.
Ellingwood, F. (1919). Maize. Stigmata maidis. The American Materia Medica: Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy. Retrieved from: Henriette's Herbal
Wang, B., Xiao, T., Ruan, R., & Liu, W. (2017). Beneficial effects of corn silk on metabolic syndrome. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 23(34), 5097-5103. https://doi.org/10.2174/1381612823666170926152425
Sahib, A.S., Mohammed, I.H., Jasim Hamdan, S. (2012). Use of aqueous extract of corn silk in the treatment of urinary tract infection. Journal of Intercultural Ethnopharmacology, 1(2), 93-96. http://doi.org/10.5455/jice.20120525123150
Hoffman, D. (1998). The Herbal Handbook: A User’s Guide to Medical Herbalism. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.
Najafzadeh, P., & Sharafati-Chaleshtori, R. (2014). The effect of corn silk on chronic urinary tract infection: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 156(1), 165-171. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2014.07.045

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