Corn Silk Tea

Corn silk tea is a nutritious herbal drink prepared from the fresh or dried elongated stigmas of corn, a staple in many countries around the world. The refreshing beverage, with its sweet flavor and pleasant taste, has plenty of macronutrients offering a wide range of health benefits.

History and origin

For hundreds of years, corn has been one of the important sources of food for the people of Asia, Africa, and America. In folk medicine, the infusion has been traditionally used as a diuretic for the treatment of kidney diseases and inflammation of the urinary tract.

Corn silk tea benefits

Prevents kidney stone formation

Corn silk, as a natural diuretic with its high potassium content, helps to increase urine production. Its consumption boosts the filtration rate and prevents chloride and sodium ions from being reabsorbed into the blood. Thus, it boosts functioning of the kidneys and reduces the chances of kidney stone formation.

Helps in detoxification

Since it prevents retention of water, it helps in removing toxins from the body, as also assists in losing weight. Being a detoxifying remedy, it may assist in the removal of sodium urate crystals from the tendons and joints, providing relief from gout and arthritis.

For urinary tract infections

As corn silk is rich in saponins and mucilage, it has anti-inflammatory properties that help in soothing the irritated and inflamed tissues of the urinary system. Research studies have shown that regularly drinking a cup of corn silk tea is beneficial for some urinary tract conditions including inflammation of the prostate and bladder infections.

Prevents bedwetting in children

Bedwetting, also known as enuresis, is a common problem among children affected by stress, constipation, hormone imbalance, and uti. Since corn silk tea resolves most of these issues, its intake is recommended to stop your kid from wetting the bed.

Good for heart health

It is an important source of essential vitamins and antioxidants, which assist in maintaining a steady blood pressure, as well as in lowering high cholesterol levels. Thus, its intake may decrease the risks of cardiovascular diseases and heart failure.

Reduces fatigue and fights acne

Because of its high flavonoid content, it exhibits anti-fatigue activity. Regularly having it relieves you from the feelings of constant weariness or weakness, helping you in fighting fatigue.

The presence of flavonoids also aids in fighting against bacteria, making it a potent remedy for acne.

How to make corn silk tea

• Take 2 cups of water in a teapot
• Add 2 tbsp of dried or fresh corn silk into it and cover the lid
• Heat the mixture until it starts boiling
• Lower the heat
• Simmer for 10 minutes
• Steep for 15-20 minutes
• Strain it
• Add some honey or sugar to enhance taste

Safety and precautions

Side effects

Having corn silk tea is safe in general, but overconsumption might result in low potassium levels causing allergies, skin rashes, and itching. Those with diabetes, corn allergy, and high/low blood pressure should avoid its intake in excess.

During pregnancy

Expecting women can have it in limited amounts, but if taken excessively it might induce premature labor by stimulating uterine contractions. Breastfeeding women should also have it in moderate amounts.

Where to buy

You can purchase caffeine-free organic corn silk tea packed in tea bags from local herbal tea stores. It can also be ordered online.