Corn silk is usually thrown away when corn is prepared for eating. But did you know that corn silk is good for your kidneys?
Corn silk can also be used to treat a urinary tract infection. Here are some of the incredible health benefits of corn silk, an unusual superfood that’s rich in vitamin K.
How do you use corn silk?
Corn silk comes from the stigmas, or the long, shiny fibers, of female corn plants. It aids in the pollination and growth of corn and is used in traditional medicine.
Research suggests that corn silk contains different plant compounds that offer many health benefits.
Corn silk is used in Traditional Chinese and Native American Medicine to treat different conditions like malaria, prostate problems, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and heart disease. Recent studies show that corn silk can also be used to help reduce blood pressure, blood sugar, blood cholesterol and inflammation.
Corn silk can be used fresh or dried before being consumed as a tea or extract. You can also take corn silk capsules.
Health benefits of corn silk
Corn silk contains essential nutrients like vitamin K. The superfood can be combined with other herbs for different types of treatment, especially if you need a natural remedy for urinary tract infections.
Kidney health and circulation
Corn silk can be used to treat and prevent the development of kidney stones in adults. If you already have a kidney infection, you can treat your condition by taking corn silk daily.
Studies show that corn silk can boost your kidney health and help lower high blood pressure.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Corn silk is a natural, soothing diuretic that can benefit your urinary tract in several ways. You can give it to children to treat enuresis or bed wetting.
Corn silk is also a common alternative to antibiotics when treating a urinary tract infection caused by bacteria.
Note that excessive use of antibacterial medications can give birth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Worse, complications can arise in children who take pharmaceutical medications.
Corn silk can also be used to treat inflammation in the bladder or urethra. To make corn silk tea, steep two teaspoons of corn silk in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink corn silk tea up to three times daily.
You can also use corn silk tinctures as an alternative. Take three to six milliliters of tincture three times daily.
Other benefits of corn silk
Taking corn silk is also said to treat other conditions like:
– Boils
– Carpal tunnel syndrome
– Obesity
– Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
– Prostate disorders
Considerations before taking corn silk
While considered generally safe for use, not everyone can take corn silk. Don’t take corn silk capsules or tea if you have experienced an allergic reaction to corn or corn products.
You should also avoid corn silk if you take any of the following medications:
– Anti-inflammatory drugs
– Blood pressure drugs
– Blood thinners
– Diabetes medicine
– Diuretics
Don’t use corn silk if you’re taking potassium supplements or have been treated for low potassium levels since it can increase excretion of the mineral. When buying supplements, purchase them from a trusted supplier. Foods.com.
