Easy Herbs: Corn Silk (Zea mays)

Corn is highly nutritious and a great way to restore vitality and energy, but it is the 'silk' from the flowers that we are concerned with here.

Many herbs have a specific relationship to specific organs or systems and Corn Silk works directly on the organs of the urinary tract. Interestingly, though (and this is just my interpretation), it works best on those parts that come after the kidneys, from the bladder onwards.

It's energetics and tastes are moist, sweet and bitter. Corn Silk is useful in many urinary tract issues. This makes it an interesting learning herb, as we can see how it can be used both as a tonic to increase tissue activity in the urinary tract, as well as toning and strengthening the mucous membranes directly.

Corn Silk does this because it has a high level of tannins which are astringent, tightening and toning the membranes, reducing inflammation. It also contains saponins (soap like compounds) that have a direct soothing effect on those membranes.

We also see that Corn Silk is a diuretic, that is, it increases the flow of urine, washing out irritating materials. It is also sweet. In many forms of medicine, sweet plants are a tonic, helping improve the functioning of the body as a whole, helping fight infections and damage.

Corn Silk can also be used for blood pressure problems, as it can normalise blood pressure by eliminating excess fluids through urination. Many guides recommend it for congestive heart failure. It doesn't work directly on the heart, though, so get advice in situations including that organ.

There's more easy explanations of the healing properties of common herbs here on our blog