Can fresh corn silk be steeped directly in water for drinking?

Generally speaking, fresh corn silk can be directly steeped in water and consumed, which offers certain health benefits, though it should be consumed in moderation. The specific analysis is as follows:

Corn silk is neutral in nature and sweet in taste, containing citric acid, vitamins, phytosterols, alkaloids, organic acids, volatile oils, trace elements, and other substances. It has effects such as promoting diuresis to reduce swelling, clearing heat and dampness, and soothing the liver to improve vision. After washing fresh corn silk thoroughly, placing it in a cup, and pouring hot water over it, allowing it to steep for several minutes before drinking, it may help alleviate symptoms such as edema and excessive internal damp-heat.

However, it's important to note that consuming excessive amounts of water steeped with fresh corn silk at one time may lead to symptoms such as abdominal bloating or pain; therefore, moderate consumption is recommended.

In daily life, corn silk can also be steeped together with other traditional Chinese herbs, such as Lycium berries (goji berries), Coix seed (Job's tears), and Poria, which can enhance spleen function, promote dampness elimination, clear the liver, and improve vision. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, garlic, and Sichuan pepper, engaging in appropriate physical exercise, and maintaining regular作息 (daily routines) can help improve overall physical health.