Cornsilk Extract

CORNSILK

Latin Name: Zea mays

Alternate Names: Yu Mi Shu (Chinese)

Family: POACEAE

Parts Used: Stamen, stigmas (collected when corn sheds its pollen.

Properties: Alterative, Cholagogue, Demulcent, Diuretic, Galactagogue, Lithotriptic, Tonic.

Internal Uses: Arthritis, Bedwetting, Cystitis, Edema, Gout, Hypertension, Jaundice, Kidney Stones, Prostatitis, Urethritis, Urinary Infections

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

Cornsilk can be used in conditions of high uric acid such as gout and some types of arthritis. It helps to reduce conditions of painful swelling. It is used for a wide range of genito-urinary complaints, but it is often combined with herbs that have more antiseptic qualities, while Cornsilk helps soothe irritated tissue. Even though it is diuretic, it can also benefit frequent urination by soothing bladder irritation. Chinese research indicates that Cornsilk reduces hypertension and reduces blood clotting time.

Energetics: Neutral, Sweet.

Chemical Constituents: Maizenic acid, vitamin K, mucilage, saponins, allantoin, tannin.

Comments: The genus name Zea means 'cause of life', and the species name mays, means 'mother'.