Corn Silk Tea Benefits And Side Effects
Corn silk, as the name suggests, is the silky thread-like material found on ears of corn. Although it is often discarded or used as animal feed, it has a long history of use in traditional medicine for various health conditions. One of the most popular ways to consume corn silk is by brewing it into a tea. In this article, we will explore the benefits and side effects of corn silk tea, and whether it's worth including in your diet.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Corn Silk Tea?
1. Helps with urinary tract infections: Corn silk tea has been shown to have a diuretic effect, making it useful in promoting urine flow and flushing out bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs).
2. Lowers blood pressure: The compounds in corn silk tea have been found to have a hypotensive effect, meaning they can help lower blood pressure levels.
3. Relieves inflammation: Corn silk tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe inflammation in the body, making it useful in conditions such as arthritis.
4. Aids in digestion: Corn silk tea can help stimulate the production of bile and digestive enzymes, making it beneficial for those with digestive problems such as constipation.
5. Helps with diabetes: Corn silk tea has been found to have a hypoglycemic effect, which means it can help lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for those with diabetes.
What Are The Side Effects Of Corn Silk Tea?
1. May cause allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to corn silk, leading to symptoms such as itching, swelling, and hives.
2. May interfere with certain medications: Corn silk tea may interact with certain medications such as diuretics or blood pressure medications, so it's best to consult with a doctor before consuming it.
3. May cause gastrointestinal discomfort: Corn silk tea can cause stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea in some people.
How To Make Corn Silk Tea
Making corn silk tea is easy and can be done at home. Here's how:
1. Collect fresh corn silk from an ear of corn.
2. Rinse the corn silk thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Boil 1 cup of water in a pot or kettle.
4. Add 1-2 tablespoons of corn silk to the boiling water and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy it hot or cold.
The Bottom Line
Corn silk tea is a healthy and natural beverage that can provide a range of health benefits. However, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects and to consult with a doctor before consuming it if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication. Overall, including corn silk tea in your diet can be a simple and effective way to improve your health and wellbeing.