Cornsilk

At a Glance

Common name

Cornsilk

Scientific name

Zea mays

Family

Poaceae

Region

Mesoamerica

Plant part

Stigmas/Styles (silk)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

The fine, pale, thread-like silky strands (styles) that stream from the tip of an ear of corn (maize), gathered fresh or dried; the rest of the plant is the familiar tall grass with ears of grain.

Also known as: Maize Silk, Indian Corn Silk, Stigma Maydis

Historical Background

Cornsilk has been a gentle urinary-tract remedy of Indigenous American peoples since maize was first cultivated, later carried worldwide as the crop spread. Its soft, silky strands are brewed into a mild, slightly sweet tea traditionally used for water balance and urinary comfort.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous American (Aztec, Maya, Native American) use as a gentle urinary tea; adopted into global folk medicine after maize spread worldwide.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, sweet, grassy, slightly green

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Cornsilk has a long tradition as a gentle urinary and mild diuretic tea. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work suggests mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory activity, but it is not a treatment for UTI, edema, kidney stones, or any disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.