Article content
Do you throw away the husks and silk from the cobs when preparing corn at home? In earlier times these waste materials were dried, and they were often used to make various figurines, little dolls or other rustic decorations. Corn silk was used not only for ornamentation, but people employed it in folk medicine to treat various ailments throughout the year. Dried silk would last until the following year. And what problems can it help with?
A remedy with diuretic effects
Corn silk has a bitter taste because it contains essential oils, tannins and phytosterols. In folk medicine it is valued for its detoxifying and diuretic effects; it is effective in cleansing the blood and relieving pain. It also soothes digestion and lowers blood pressure and blood sugar levels. In cosmetics it is used to calm the skin and to strengthen hair. It is best to collect the silk during July and August, dry it in the shade in a thin layer and store it for the whole year in a sealable glass container.
Tea for kidney stones
Put 2 tablespoons of corn silk into a cup with 200 ml of boiling water, cover with a ceramic saucer and let steep for 15 minutes. Then drink a spoonful every two hours. The cure should ideally last 2–3 months to remove issues with kidney stones.
For weight loss
For weight reduction, again prepare a decoction of corn silk and drink it unsweetened twice a day after lunch and dinner; the tea acts not only as a diuretic but also as a mild laxative.
For edema
Corn silk works great to help drain fluid from the body; in cases of excessive water retention or swelling, drink 2–3 cups of fresh tea in small doses.
For painful menstrual cramps
Corn silk contains vitamins K and E, which help reduce menstrual problems, cramps or bleeding disorders; moreover they are ideal during menopause, when they help with mood changes or hot flashes. Drink tea made from 1 tablespoon of dried corn silk in small doses throughout the day; do not exceed 2 cups per day.
For recovery after a stroke
Corn silk also contributes to the regeneration of the body and brain functions, so it is advisable after a stroke to drink 1–2 cups of corn silk tea.
