The Efficacy and Effects of Drinking Corn Silk Steeped in Water
Drinking water infused with corn silk generally offers health benefits such as promoting diuresis and reducing edema, clearing dampness and reducing jaundice, relieving urinary tract discomfort and aiding stone passage, protecting the liver and detoxifying, and clearing internal heat while hydrating the body.
1. Promote Diuresis and Reduce Edema
Corn silk has a bland and sweet taste and can promote diuresis to reduce edema. It helps eliminate excess fluid from the body and may improve conditions such as edema and difficulty in urination. Drinking corn silk water may help alleviate symptoms of edema, increase urine output, and reduce fluid retention.
2. Clear Dampness and Reduce Jaundice
Corn silk effectively clears dampness and reduces jaundice. Drinking corn silk water can help clear damp-heat from the liver and gallbladder and promote bile secretion and excretion. It may serve as an adjunct in treating jaundice caused by conditions such as acute icteric hepatitis and cholecystitis. It can help lower bilirubin levels, alleviate jaundice symptoms, and relieve yellowing of the skin and sclera.
3. Promote Urinary Flow and Aid Stone Passage
Corn silk helps promote urinary flow. Drinking corn silk water can increase urine output, helping to flush the urinary tract and serving as an adjunct in treating urinary tract stones. It may assist in expelling small stones through urine and relieve symptoms such as flank or abdominal pain and hematuria caused by stones.
4. Protect the Liver and Detoxify
The active components in corn silk can enhance the liver's detoxification function. Drinking corn silk water may help reduce the liver's workload and provide some protection against alcohol-induced liver damage. Additionally, it can promote bile secretion, aid in fat digestion, and support overall liver health.
5. Clear Internal Heat and Hydrate
Corn silk has a cooling nature. During hot summer months or when there is internal heat toxicity, drinking corn silk water can effectively replenish bodily fluids while clearing damp-heat. This helps alleviate internal heat, prevent heatstroke, and maintain skin hydration.
It is recommended to drink corn silk water in moderation and not in excessive amounts. A balanced dietary structure is also advised in daily nutrition.