We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Medical Uses of Cornsilk?

By Melissa Barrett
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,787
Share

Cornsilk (zea mays) is used in herbal medicine primarily for the treatment of urinary tract, kidney, and bladder issues. To many, it is easily recognizable as the silky threads that are between the husk and the corn in a fresh ear of corn. This herb is also referred to as Indian cornsilk and maize silk.

Cornsilk has diuretic properties, which basically means it increases how often a person urinates. As urination is one of the primary ways that the body rids itself of toxins, it can be used as a general detoxifying agent. This diuretic effect can also be used to treat conditions complicated by water retention, such as edema and premenstrual syndrome.

Urinary tract infection treatment can be enhanced with the addition of cornsilk. Frequent urination can help flush bacteria from the bladder and provide some relief of discomfort. It is important to note that, while the herb may help to relieve the symptoms of a urinary tract or bladder infection, it will not treat the infection itself. Individuals who think they may have an infection should consult their physicians.

Kidney stone and prostatitis treatment can similarly be complemented by the inclusion of cornsilk. Once again, the “flushing” of bacteria can reduce symptoms of prostate infection. Extra stimulation of the kidneys and increased urination can help to reduce the size of kidney stones. It can also increase the chances of expelling a kidney stone spontaneously.

The diuretic effects of cornsilk are mild and generally considered safe in most individuals. Care should be taken while using any diuretic, however, as excessive urination can drop potassium levels too low. The resulting condition, called hypokalemia, can cause abnormal heart rhythms, temporary paralysis, and loss of muscle control. If untreated, hypokalemia can lead to death.

There is some evidence that cornsilk may lower blood sugar levels, and it may be included in herbal preparations used for this purpose. Many people who are managing diabetes with only diet and exercise have successfully incorporated the herb into their regimens. Use of the herb in conjunction with diabetes medications, however, is not advised. The combination can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar levels.

Zea mays is primarily distributed as an herbal supplement, and thus, distributors of the herb are not required to conduct studies to prove its effectiveness. It is widely accepted that the herb has diuretic properties, but there is little scientific evidence to substantiate its usefulness for treating specific conditions. Like many herbal remedies, however, cornsilk has been used for centuries and has much anecdotal support.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-medical-uses-of-cornsilk.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.