Corn Silk

Corn silk is used as a medicine. Corn silk is used for bladder infections, and inflammation of the urinary system. It is also used to treat congestive heart failure, diabetes, high blood pressure, fatigue, and high cholesterol levels. The tassel of silk on an ear of corn was used by some Native Americans to treat urinary conditions. Corn silk extract can act as a powerful diuretic, Increased urine flow can prevent the buildup of bacteria that leads to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder infections. And if you do get a UTI or bladder infection, corn silk extract soothes inflammation to ease pain. Cornsilk is traditionally used in Dominican Republic to treat fibroids and to reduce cramps when combined with other plants. Corn silk has been used in a traditional setting to improve digestion, acid reflux, At the same time, corn silk is also used to lower blood pressure, clear bile in the treatment of hepatobiliary disease, gallstones, and jaundice. This is also one of the herbs used to treat liver disease effectively. The water extracted from corn silk showed antioxidant properties that can be used to treat swelling and gout, kidney stones, cystitis, prostatitis, and nephritis. Corn silk tea consumption led to a significant reduction in body weight, body fat percentage, and lipid accumulation. You can also use corn silk topically. The tea made with it can be applied topically to deal with skin problems like boils and rashes. It can also help alleviate itching and pain caused by skin wounds. This herbal medicine also shows anti-aging benefits, as it has antioxidants.

Separate the corn silk from the cob and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.  Only use the organic silk. If you wish to store it for a longer duration, you can also sun-dry it for a few days and store it as dried cornsilk. I spin it in a flat circle and use the dehydrator. In a teapot place about 1/4 cup of fresh corn silk per cup of water or 2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of water. Pour the boiling water into the teapot, put the lid on and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Once it is ready, strain the tea into a mug and drink 3 times a day. Cover the tea and place in the fridge until cold. Tea will keep for three to four days in the fridge. To help hair growth, Steep a small handful of corn silk in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Once the corn silk has infused the water, strain it and massage the resulting liquid into your scalp. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing it out. You can do this treatment once or twice weekly for the best results.

Too many calories and sugar can lead to things like obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other ailments. Make sure not to go overboard with how much corn silk tea you have at a time. Large amounts of corn silk can be unsafe if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Corn silk can decrease potassium levels in the blood and can cause skin rashes, itching, and allergies.