For centuries, native Americans have used corn silk (Maydis Stigma) as a natural remedy for various ailments. It is still being used today for different uses. Today, scientists have also taken an interest in the potential medicinal benefits of corn silk. In a study published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, corn silk was found to be a potential natural remedy for inflammation.

For the study, a team of researchers at the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine in Daegu, Republic of Korea looked at the anti-inflammatory properties of corn silk and its molecular mechanism both in cells and in mice.

The results of the trials showed that the treatment with corn silk on cells inhibited inflammation without harming healthy cells. In addition, it suppressed the production of proinflammatory cytokines.

In the animal trial, the research team treated mice with acetic acid to cause abdominal writhing. They also induced ear edema in mice by giving the animals xylene. They found that treatment with corn silk relieved abnormal writhing and reduced inflammation in mice. The research team also identified the compounds found in corn silk extract and found that it contains maysin as a marker component.

From these findings, the research team concluded that corn silk can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. These findings suggest that corn silk extract may be used to treat inflammation-related health problems.

Other health benefits of corn silk

In addition to reducing inflammation, corn silk can also be used for the following:

For treating urinary tract problems: Corn silk is also used as a soothing diuretic that can be beneficial for the urinary tract. In children, it can be used to treat enuresis, or more commonly known as bed wetting. It is also widely used as an alternative to antibiotics when treating a urinary infection caused by bacteria. Corn silk can also help fight inflammation in the bladder or urethra. In addition, corn silk may be used for the treatment and prevention of the development of kidney stones in adults. Taking corn silk each day can also be used to treat infections of the kidney.

For keeping the heart healthy: Research has shown that the herb can also help reduce high blood pressure and the risks of blood clots forming in the blood vessels. Consuming corn silk may also prevent the hardening of the arteries and reducing the risk of anemia. The heart-healthy benefit of corn silk may be attributed to its diuretic action.

For improving digestion: Consuming corn silk may also treat indigestion and improve poor digestion. These may be due to its cleansing ability that helps support the production of bile and other digestive juices. A healthy digestive system may also help prevent obesity by getting rid of excess fats and wastes from the body.

For detoxifying: Corn silk may detoxify the kidneys and bladder, as well as the liver and gallbladder. Detoxifying organs will help them function better.

You can consume corn silk as tea. To make one, steep 2 tablespoons of corn silk in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink this tea one to three times each day. Corn silk is also available in tinctures. For this, taking three to six millimeters (ml) each day is usually recommended.

Sources include:

Science.news

Livestrong.com

TheRightTea.com