Corn Silk

Zea mays

Graminaceae

Collection: The stigmas should be collected just before pollination occurs, the timing depends upon climate. It is best used fresh as some of the activity is lost with time.

Part Used: Stigmas from the female flowers of maize. Fine soft threads 4-8 inches long.

Constituents:

  • Saponins
  • Allantoin
  • Sterols,
    especially [[beta]]-sitosterol and stigmasterol
  • The alkaloid hordenine
  • Miscellaneous; Vitamins C & K, cryptoxanthin, anthocyanins, plant acids.

    Actions: Diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, tonic.

    Indications: As a soothing diuretic, Corn Silk is helpful in any irritation of the urinary system. It is used for renal problems in children and as a urinary demulcent combined with other herbs in the treatment
    of cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis and the like.

    Ellingwood suggests Corn Silk in the following conditions: catarrhalcystitis, lithaemia (stones), bladder irritation, gonorrhoea, all catarrhal conditions of the urinary passages, dropsies due to heart disease, edema.

    Combinations: With Couchgrass, Bearberry, Buchu or Yarrow in the treatment of cystitis.


    Preparations & Dosage
    : Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and leave to infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

    Tincture: take 3-6 ml of the tincture three times a day.

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Written by David L. Hoffmann BSc Hons MNIMH

Explore Wellness in 2021