Tincture of Corn Silk (Zea mays) 1:5 25%
Zea mays, organic grain alcohol
Daily adult dose: 5 - 15ml three times a day unless otherwise directed.
Generally regarded as safe.
Family: Poaceae
Part used: Style and stigma of the plant (silky strands around the corn)
Habitat: Native to Latin America, this familiar annual monocot and food crop grows to 4m. It prefers fertile, well drained moist soil and full sun. The 'silk' protruding from the top of the cob and male inflorescence is traditionally used as medicine but is a waste product of agricultural production.
Folklore and History: The latin name is unexpectedly poetic and speaks of the central place maize has had in the culture and hsitory of American peoples. Zea means 'cause of life' and mays means 'our mother'.
Constituents: Mucilage, vitamins C and K, Potassium and other minerals, volatile oils, saponins, allantonin, phytosterols, tannins, maizeric avid, flavonoids and flavone glycosides.
Actions: Demulcent for the urinary tract, mild diuretic, anti-lithic
• Soothing for any inflammation of the urinary system, for example: cystitis, urethrits, acute and chronic prostatitis, eneuresis, kidney stones, interstitial cystitis.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Max Drake Medical Herbalist disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.