Organic Cornsilk Zea Mays (Stigma And Style) Extract
Also known as: Cornsilk, corn silk extract, Organic Cornsilk Zea Mays (Stigma And Style) Extract, Zea mays (Stigma and Style) Extract
Overview
Cornsilk, scientifically known as *Zea mays* L. (Stigma and Style), refers to the silky fibers found on the ears of corn. It is a traditional herbal medicine ingredient recognized for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive properties. The extract is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, terpenoids, sterols, saponins, and organic acids, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Cornsilk extracts are commonly consumed as teas or dietary supplements, primarily to support kidney and liver health, manage hypertension, and reduce edema. While preclinical and some clinical studies support its traditional uses, high-quality systematic reviews and large-scale randomized controlled trials are still limited, indicating a need for more robust research.
Benefits
Cornsilk offers several potential health benefits, though the strength of evidence varies. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 50 healthy adults demonstrated a significant diuretic effect, with 500 mg of cornsilk extract twice daily for 7 days increasing urine output by approximately 28% compared to placebo, without significant electrolyte loss. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (n=567) suggested that cornsilk tea, when combined with conventional antihypertensive drugs, improved blood pressure control more effectively than drugs alone (RR=1.27; 95% CI: 1.17–1.38; p<0.00001), although the included studies had methodological limitations. Preliminary open-label research in 30 type 2 diabetes patients indicated some improvement in glycemic control when cornsilk tea was added to metformin, but this evidence is considered preliminary due to small sample size and study design. Preclinical studies also suggest cornsilk extract may support liver and kidney health through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Other experimental data hint at lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-urolithiasis activities, but these require clinical confirmation.
How it works
The therapeutic actions of cornsilk are attributed to its diverse array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids (such as maysin), polysaccharides, and terpenoids. These compounds exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to its overall health benefits. The diuretic action is thought to involve the modulation of renal electrolyte transport, leading to increased urine output without significant depletion of essential electrolytes. Antihypertensive effects may stem from vasodilation and improved endothelial function, potentially mediated through antioxidant pathways that reduce oxidative stress. The proposed hypoglycemic effect could be related to enhanced insulin sensitivity or direct modulation of glucose metabolism, though the exact mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated. The absorption and bioavailability of these active compounds can vary depending on the extraction methods and the specific formulation of the cornsilk product.
Side effects
Cornsilk is generally considered safe when consumed in typical dietary amounts. Clinical trials have reported rare and mild side effects, with no significant electrolyte imbalances observed in short-term use at doses of 500 mg twice daily. However, consuming very large amounts could potentially lead to decreased potassium and sodium levels, which might be problematic for individuals with pre-existing electrolyte imbalances or those taking diuretic medications. Cornsilk is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage. It is also recommended to discontinue cornsilk supplementation at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery, as it may interfere with blood sugar and blood pressure control during the procedure. While no significant drug interactions have been extensively documented, caution is advised when combining cornsilk with antihypertensive or diuretic medications due to potential additive effects.
Dosage
Effective doses of cornsilk extract in clinical studies for diuretic effects typically involve 500 mg taken twice daily for a duration of 7 days. For cornsilk tea, doses vary, and clinical trials often use standardized preparations in conjunction with conventional antihypertensive drugs. There is currently no established maximum safe dose for cornsilk, and long-term safety data are limited. Cornsilk supplements are usually taken orally, and can be consumed with or without food. The absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds may be influenced by the specific extraction method used in the product. No specific cofactors have been identified as necessary for its absorption. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional, especially when using cornsilk for specific health conditions or in combination with other medications.
FAQs
Is cornsilk effective for high blood pressure?
Some evidence suggests cornsilk tea may help improve blood pressure control when used alongside standard antihypertensive medications, but more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm this effect.
Can cornsilk be used for diabetes?
Preliminary research indicates potential benefits for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, but the evidence is currently insufficient to make clinical recommendations. Further studies are required.
Is cornsilk safe during pregnancy?
No, cornsilk should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions and could pose a risk of miscarriage.
How soon do effects appear?
Diuretic effects have been observed within 7 days of use. Antihypertensive effects, particularly when combined with other medications, may take longer to manifest.
Research Sources
- https://www.jneonatalsurg.com/index.php/jns/article/download/8353/7347/26822 – This RCT on diuretic effect (2014) showed that 500 mg cornsilk extract twice daily for 7 days increased urine output by 28% in 50 healthy adults compared to placebo, with stable electrolyte levels. The study was double-blind and placebo-controlled, but limited by its short duration and lack of pharmacokinetic data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6354158/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis (2019) of 5 RCTs (n=567) found that cornsilk tea combined with conventional antihypertensive drugs significantly improved blood pressure control. However, the review noted methodological limitations in the included trials, such as poor quality, lack of blinding, and small sample sizes, suggesting moderate to low quality evidence.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10891732/ – This comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological review (2020) details cornsilk's chemical constituents and biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and hypoglycemic effects observed in preclinical and limited clinical studies. It emphasizes the critical need for more high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm these findings.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-140/corn-silk – This source provides general information on cornsilk, including its traditional uses, potential side effects, and safety warnings. It highlights contraindications such as pregnancy and advises caution with certain medical conditions or before surgery.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mnfr.70117?af=R – This review (2020) discusses the various experimental data suggesting lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-urolithiasis activities of cornsilk. It underscores that while these findings are promising, clinical confirmation is still lacking for many of these effects.