Zea mays (Graminae)

CORNSILK, MAIZE

Cornsilk from the maize plant is a key herbal remedy for inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract, such as cystitis, bladder and kidney infections, and kidney stones.

Corn is a valuable cereal; the kernels have fibrous coats that help relieve constipation, and contain starch, protein, and an oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which lower the risk of heart disease. In addition, the silks, which are usually discarded when corn-on-the-cob is eaten, are prized as a herb for common urinary tract ailments. Native to South America but now cultivated throughout the world, it is an annual grass with male and female flowers on each plant. As soon as the ovaries in the cob are fertilized, the stigmas dry to a rusty brown and the yellow kernels develop.

PARTS USED

Stigmas, styles.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Saponins; allantoin; sterols and stigmasterol; alkaloid, hordenine; polyphenols.

ACTIONS

Increases urine production; soothes internal body surfaces.

MEDICINAL USE

Used for inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract such as cystitis, bladder and kidney infections, and kidney stones.

PREPARATIONS

Infusion, tincture.