Biological Purpose

According to the University of Illinois Extension Service, each thread of corn silk is a long, thin tube that allows pollen caught in the wind to fertilize the corn plant. Each thread of silk forms one kernel of corn.

Medicinal Purpose

The Monterey Bay Spice Company reports that corn silk contains many vitamins and chemical compounds that make it ideal as a natural remedy. Its high concentration of potassium makes it an ideal diuretic.

Active Compounds

Corn silk contains high levels of Vitamin C and potassium, as well as allantoin, sterols and saponins, according to the Monterey Bay Spice Company. These natural chemicals help the body absorb nutrients or release excess fluid from cells.

Conditions

An article in Nutrition and Metabolism, a nutrition science journal, reports that corn silk has a positive effect on blood sugar metabolism. The Monterey Bay Spice Company notes that herbalists use corn silk to treat kidney stones, soothe the urinary tract and reduce blood pressure by stopping fluid retention.

Dosage

According to Nutritional Wellness, an herbal remedy information site, the usual dose of corn silk is 15 to 30 g per day, brewed as a tea. Fresh or dried corn silk is available at herbal remedy stores in measured packages; some stores also sell dried corn silk in powder or pill form.

Source:

University of Illinois Extension Service: Corn Guide

Nutrition and Metabolism: Effects of Corn Silk on Glycemic Metabolism

Monterey Bay Spice Company: Corn Silk Information

More Information:

Nutritional Wellness: Corn Silk