Cornsilk (Zea mays (silk))
Synopsis of cornsilk
Cornsilk refers to the long, thread-like styles and stigmas of the female flower of the corn plant (Zea mays), typically discarded during corn harvesting. However, in herbal medicine, these silky threads have been used for centuries as a mild, soothing diuretic and urinary tract remedy. Cornsilk is rich in flavonoids (like maysin), phytosterols, allantoin, saponins, volatile oils, and potassium salts, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and mild antimicrobial effects.
Its most common uses are in supporting urinary system health, especially for:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Cystitis and bladder irritation
- Kidney stones and gravel
- Frequent urination or dribbling
- Prostate inflammation (prostatitis)
Cornsilk acts by soothing irritated mucous membranes, increasing urine flow, and reducing urinary tract inflammation. It is gentle enough for use in children, the elderly, and during convalescence, often preferred in cases where more stimulating diuretics would be too harsh. Because of its high potassium content, it does not typically deplete electrolytes, a benefit over synthetic diuretics.
Cornsilk may also offer mild blood sugar regulation, support liver and bile function, and help reduce fluid retention, especially when associated with sluggish lymph or urinary flow. It is commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or fluid extract, often combined with herbs like uva ursi, marshmallow root, or dandelion leaf.
Historical Use
Cornsilk has been used traditionally by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Iroquois, and Hopi, as a primary herbal remedy for urinary tract disorders, bedwetting, and inflammation of the kidneys or bladder. It was usually prepared as a decoction or infusion and drunk several times a day until symptoms resolved.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, corn (including cornsilk) is considered sweet and neutral in nature and is used to promote urination, reduce edema, clear heat, and calm liver fire. It was sometimes prescribed in cases of jaundice, gallstones, and hypertension.
In 19th and early 20th century Western herbalism, cornsilk was highly regarded as a mucilaginous urinary demulcent, featured in herbal pharmacopeias for use in irritable bladder, urethritis, and inflammation from infection or stones. It was often used in both acute and chronic genitourinary conditions, and recognized for being non-irritating and restorative.
Cornsilk was also incorporated into folk medicine practices in Central and South America, where it was used for fluid retention, high blood pressure, and liver congestion.
Today, cornsilk is a gentle, safe, and effective herb for urinary system support, especially in cases of inflammation, infection, and irritation, and is often included in bladder and kidney health formulas in both traditional and modern herbal medicine.
Cornsilk is used for these health conditions
Bedwetting (Traditional)
Bladder (irritable) (Traditional)
Bladder Infection (Traditional)
Blood in Urine (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed) (Traditional)
Incontinence (Traditional)
Interstitial Cystitis (Traditional)
Kidney Infection (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Urination (burning or painful) (Traditional)
Urination (frequent) (Traditional)
cornsilk is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
