Botanical Overview
Zea mays (stigma), commonly known as corn silk, is the silky styles found on the ears of the corn plant, belonging to the Poaceae family. The stigma is the primary medicinal part used, traditionally harvested from cultivated corn plants across North and Central America and widely worldwide.
Energetics
Corn silk is characterized by a cooling temperature and moistening moisture quality. Its taste is predominantly sweet, and energetically, it acts in a relaxing tonicity influencing body fluids.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Mild hypoglycemic
Indications
Western
- Urinary tract irritation
- Mild edema
- Kidney and bladder inflammation
- Cystitis
- Prostatitis (adjunct)
Syndromes
- Urinary tract infections (adjunct)
- Mild fluid retention
- Inflammatory urinary conditions
TCM
- Damp-heat in lower jiao
- Dysuria
- Irritation with urinary discomfort
Syndromes
- Damp-heat syndrome
- Lin syndrome (urinary difficulty/dysuria)
Ayurveda
No well-documented traditional uses noted.
Unani
No well-documented traditional uses noted.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Corn silk contains flavonoids, saponins, mucilage, polysaccharides, and carotenoids contributing to its diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g dried stigma per cup, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally regarded as safe when used appropriately. Allergic reactions are possible in those sensitive to corn. The use during pregnancy and lactation is not well studied; consultation with a healthcare professional is advised. Potential interactions with diuretics and hypoglycemic agents require monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
No credible traditional sources identified for planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Zea mays – corn silk, PFAF Database
- Zea mays L., Maydis stigma, ESCOP Monographs (2003)
- Herbal Medicine Monographs: Corn Silk (Zea mays), NIH NCCIH (2017)
- Chinese Materia Medica, Traditional Chinese Medicine texts