Awesome Benefits of Corn Silk for Inflammation, Cholesterol, and More
What is corn silk? Benefits / Uses Dosage Risks and side effects
Do you know the long silky threads you lose when peeling
corn on the cob for cooking? This material is called corn silk, and in fact, it
has been used in traditional Chinese and Native American medicine for
centuries.
It is one of the most nutritious edible parts that most
people don't realize can not only be eaten but can be used as a natural
remedy.
Fat. This plant material contains many beneficial
compounds and has been used therapeutically for malaria,
high blood pressure, bladder infections, and inflammation. Today, it is
available in tea and supplement form and has recently received even more
attention for its possible effects on weight loss. However, more research is
needed to understand its use for weight loss.
For now, eating silk in average amounts of food is considered
safe and provides essential nutrients.
What is corn silk?
Cornsilk, or Stigma maydis, are the pale threadlike strands
that grow inside the husk of corn. The fine fibers exist to trap pollen for
pollination, which promotes the growth of corn.
The silks are also beneficial to humans and used
in traditional medicine in countries such as the United States, China, Turkey,
and France.
Corn silk can be used both fresh and dried and is often
used to make tea.
Benefit / Uses
1. Good source of antioxidant
Stigma may be rich in the phenolic compound, especially
flavonoids. Studies on plant fibers show that they offer vigorous antioxidant
activity by inhibiting the scavenging of free radicals.
Animal studies show that corn bristles have
anti-inflammatory effects and can be used to suppress pro-inflammatory
mediators. Researchers believe that the strands may help treat inflammatory diseases related to oxidative stress.
2. Rich in nutrients
We know that the nutritional values of corn are impressive,
but its silks are also rich in macro and micronutrients. Contains :
protein
carbohydrates
vitamins
calcium
potassium
magnesium
sodium salts
It also contains volatile oils and steroids, including
sitosterol and stigmasterol, alkaloids, and saponins.
3. Improves cholesterol levels
There is some evidence to suggest that consuming the
flavonoids in Stigma maydis may help improve cholesterol levels.
In one study, the administration of flavonoids from corn
silk extract resulted in a significant drop in triglyceride and LDL cholesterol
levels. There were no differences in HDL cholesterol levels, but data shows that
the bristles may have potential antihyperlipidemic effects.
4. Lowers blood pressure
Although more clinical trials are needed, some research
indicates that corn silk tea is helpful for patients with hypertension. The main
result of drinking tea was a total decrease in blood pressure, but the researchers
note that using tea plus antihypertensive drugs may be more effective.
5. May lower blood sugars
Studies indicate that consuming these corn threads has
anti-diabetic effects and has improved glucose tolerance in rats.
Although more human research is needed, animal studies demonstrate the
anti-diabetic benefits of corn silk.
6. Can work as a diuretics
Research suggests that corn silk soothe and relaxes the bladder and urinary tubules lining, so it may help reduce irritation
and increase urine output.
The bristles have diuretic effects, and urine output
increases after consumption. Because it acts as a diuretic, eating this part of
the corn plant can also lower potassium levels.
Stigma may also be used in traditional medicines to
treat urinary tract infections. Although research into this possible benefit of
corn silk is limited, its diuretic properties may promote urinary tract health.
7. It can help improve depression
While more research involving humans is needed, evidence involving mice suggests that corn silk has antidepressant
activity and may improve "arousal spirit" and lengthen the active time.
8. It can help you lose weight
There is evidence from studies in mice to support the weight
loss benefits of corn silk, but human trials are needed.
In one study, researchers concluded that corn silk abstract
inhibits fat accumulation and synthesis while promoting the expression of
genes involved in fat oxidation. Bristles can reduce the buildup of body fat,
at least in animals.
Dose
Stigma may be eaten raw, dried, as a tea, or as a
supplement. It is considered safe when consumed in average amounts of food, but no recommended dosage is used in supplement form.s
At this time, with limited evidence of their safety and
effectiveness, it is recommended to stick to the lower doses suggested on
product labels.
You can also find corn silk tea at most health food stores
or buy it online. Opt for teas made by a reputable company that uses non-GMO
ingredients certified by the USDA. Check the ingredient label to make it unquestionable
there are no unwanted flavors.
side effect
Corn silk is considered safe when consumed in the amount
typically found in food. It is not recommended to finish it in large quantities
for pregnant women because the plant material can rouse the womb.
People with diabetes should consume corn silk with caution
as it can naturally lower blood sugar levels and interfere with maintaining
healthy levels. It can also lower potassium levels, so people with low
potassium levels should not use it.
People taking diabetes, high blood pressure,
inflammation, and blood clots should consult a doctor before using corn silk.
It should also not be used therapeutically with diuretics.
It is possible to be allergic to corn silk, so stop using it if you
experience itching, rash, or redness after consumption.
