Cornsilk

Identity

Common Name

Cornsilk

Scientific Name

Zea mays

Botanical Family

Poaceae

Native Region

Mesoamerica (cultivated worldwide)

Cultivation Regions

Worldwide (wherever maize is grown)

Plant Parts Used

Stigmas/Styles (silk)

Synonyms

Maize Silk, Indian Corn Silk, Stigma Maydis

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.

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 Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources