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 | Cornsilk Other Names:
Botanical Name: Zea Mays (LINN.)
Family: N.O. Graminaceae |
Description: |
| The stigmas (fine soft, yellowish threads) from the female flowers of maize from 4 to 8 inches long and of a light green, purplish red, yellow or light brown colour, stigmas bifid; the segments very slender, frequently unequal, nearly odourless, faintly sweetish taste. |
Habitat: |
| Sub-tropical countries of the world. and cultivated in warm climates |
Constituents: |
Maizenic acid is present in the dried corn silk; also fixed oil, resin, chlorophyl, sugar-gum extractive albuminoids phlobaphine salt, cellulose and water.
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Medicinal Usage: |
A mild stimulant, diuretic and demulcent, useful in acute and chronic cystitis and in the bladder irritation of uric acid and phosphatic gravel; has also been employed in gonorrhoea. In action like Holy Thistle.
Infusion 1 in 10), 2 fluid ounces. Fluid extract of maize stigmas, B.P.C., 1 to 2 fluid drachms. Syrup of maize stigmas, B.P.C., 2 to 4 fluid drachms. Mazenic is given in doses of 1/8 grain. |
Ancient Lore: |
CORN SILK (zea mays)
From the husks or ears hang many soft filaments called "the silk". This is the part that has medicinal properties. It is out off before the pollen drops from the flowers and dried quickly in the shade. Should a reliable diuretic be needed then drink Corn Silk tea which is also an effective, harmless weight-reducer (of interest to the many overweight people in our affluent society). If Corn Silk is stored not completely dried, it looses its diuretic qualities and becomes laxative.
For disorders of the urinary tract with formations of stones, edema, fluid in the heart, the Corn Silk tea is as effective as for nephritis, cystitis, gout and rheumatism. It can also be employed successfully in bedwetting of children or older people, as well as for renal colic. For all these disorders take one tablespoon of tea every two to three hours.
DIRECTION :Infusion: 1/4 litre of hot water is poured over 1 heaped teaspoon of Corn Silk, infused for a short time, not sweetened. |
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