Corn Silk
Zea mays
T Traditional useA tea made from the silky threads of corn cobs, traditionally drunk to increase urine flow in minor urinary complaints. It does not cause weight loss.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Corn silk is the silky styles at the tip of a corn cob. It contains flavonoids and potassium salts. It is traditionally used to increase urine flow and flush the urinary tract in minor urinary complaints; the EMA's draft assessment also classes this as traditional use. It has not been shown to clear kidney stones or cause weight loss.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used to increase urine flow and help flush the urinary tract in minor urinary complaints. [1]
How is it used?
Tea
Infuse 1 tablespoon (about 2–4 g) of dried silk in 200 ml of boiling water for 10–15 minutes; drink plenty of fluids.
Amount: 2–3 times daily
Duration limit: 2 weeks
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 12 years
- Do not use for swelling caused by heart or kidney failure.
- See a doctor if fever, painful urination, cramps or blood in the urine occur.
- Do not use if allergic to corn.
- Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been shown; ask a doctor before use.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Diuretic medicines, lithium | May affect fluid and salt balance. [2] | Moderate |
| Diabetes and blood pressure medicines | Lowered blood sugar and blood pressure in animal studies. [2] | Minor |
Side effects
- Rarely allergy or skin rash
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Each strand of corn silk is attached to a single kernel; a kernel whose strand is not pollinated does not develop. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does corn silk clear kidney stones?
No reliable study shows this; see a doctor if you suspect kidney stones.
Does corn silk help weight loss?
No. The diuretic effect is water loss, not fat loss.
How is corn silk tea made?
Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried silk in 200 ml of boiling water for 10–15 minutes.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Corn Silk (Zea mays). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/corn-silk/
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