Family Name: Graminaceae
Botanical Name(s): Zea Mays
Popular Name(s): Corn, Indian corn, Maize Jagnog, Turkish Corn
Parts Used: Stigmas from the female flowers of maize
Habitat: Cornsilk is found in sub-tropical countries of the
world.
Description: Cornsilk is an herb that resembles bamboo canes and
its joints (nodes) are 20-30 cm (8-12 in) apart. The stem is erect and
possesses a height of 2-3 m (7-10 ft). The lower leaves are 50-100 cm
long and 5-10 cm wide (2-4 ft by 2-4 in). The part of the plant that is
used is the stigma from the female flower and it ranges from 4 to 8
inches in length.
Uses: Cornsilk is used as tonic, diuretic, demulcent and acts as
an anti-inflammatory substance. It is helpful in all kinds of irritation
of the urinary system. It is used for renal problems in children and as
a urinary demulcent when combined with other herbs. It is used to cure
catarrhal cystitis, lithaemia (stones), bladder irritation, gonorrhoea,
dropsies due to heart disease and edema.
