Corns have thin thread-like strands that are known as corn silk. We often throw them away without knowing the host of health benefits that come from them. Corn silk contains stigmasterol, sitosterol, plant acids, and other beneficial components that can help improve our overall health.
When made into a tea, corn silk may help lower our risk of heart diseases, improve oral and skin conditions, regulate our blood sugar levels, and keep kidney problems at bay.
Corn Silk Tea And Kidney’s Health
Consumption of corn silk tea has been helpful in the treatment of various conditions associated with kidneys such as kidney stones, bladder infection, inflammation of the urinary system, prostate problems, and more.
In a study conducted by South Korean University wherein researchers used cultured cells, results showed that corn silk tea could help reduce the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Kidney stones are made of small crystallized deposits that can cause pain and annoyance. When it comes to this problem, the tea can be used to prevent its occurrence. With regular consumption, corn silk tea acts as a natural potent diuretic agent – meaning it helps flush out excess water and waste from the body. Studies have shown that diuretics help get rid of several health hazards including congestive heart failure and kidney diseases in the long run.
Drinking the tea can increase urine flow and decrease the chances of sediment formation in kidneys, which otherwise can eventually lead to kidney stone formation. However, it is important to mention that it will not treat kidney stones that are already present but instead, it will help in preventing the occurrence or worsening of this condition.
How To Make A Corn Silk Tea
It’s easy to make a cup of this healing tea. Here are the steps to follow:
- Boil water to 100 degrees Celsius.
- Place about ¼ cup of corn silk in a teapot and pour one cup of boiling water. If using dried and powdered corn silk, 2 teaspoons of it should be added to the teapot.
- Seal the teapot with a lid and allow the corn silk to steep for about 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a mug and drink 3 cups daily. Honey can be added to sweeten it. We can also add some lime, lemon, or fresh ginger root to the tea as it steeps to make it more flavorful and boost its numerous health benefits.
Corn silk tea can also be served over ice on a hot afternoon.
