Corn in Herbal Medicine: Mais Properties

Scientific name

Zea mays

Family

Gramineae

Origin

Central America

Used Parts

Drug consisting of stigmas

Chemical constituents

Essential oil;
Phytosterols;
Flavonoids;
Tannins;
saponins;
mucilage;
Potassium salts;
Alkaloids.

Corn in Herbal Medicine: Mais Properties

Corn stigmas are used in folk medicine as a remedy for diuretic and antispastic activity on smooth muscles (decoction or fluid extract); this use is also confirmed by experimental research.

The use of corn in cases of overweight, rheumatic diseases or skin diseases, does not find any scientifically based indication.

Biological activity

As mentioned, diuretic properties are attributed to corn and this is often used in teas or decoctions to promote diuresis. Although this use has not been officially approved, some studies have confirmed the aforementioned activity. More in detail, it appears that the diuretic action is exerted through a mechanism of action that occurs at the level of the glomeruli and the proximal renal tubule.

In addition, the ability to stimulate the heart muscle and increase blood pressure is also ascribed to corn.

The main components responsible for the aforementioned properties seem to be saponins, tannins and essential oil contained within the plant.

Furthermore, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties are attributed to corn and this is why it is used to keep blood sugar levels and LDL cholesterol low. However, at the moment, there are no scientific studies to confirm these activities.

On the other hand, the elasticising and emollient properties exerted on corn skin by corn seeds are confirmed. In fact, this oil is part of the composition of various cosmetic products (for more in-depth information on this, we recommend reading the articles dedicated to "Corn oil" and "Corn oil in cosmetics").

Corn in folk medicine and homeopathy

The diuretic properties of maize have long been known to folk medicine, which uses it precisely to favor diuresis, but not only. In fact, the plant is also used to treat diseases of the urinary tract and, moreover, traditional medicine exploits the alleged antispastic activity on smooth muscles. In some cases, corn is also used as a laxative remedy.

In Chinese medicine, however, maize is used as a remedy to counter liver disorders.

Corn is also used in the homeopathic environment, where it can be found in the form of granules or glycerine macerate with indications for the treatment of urinary tract disorders, such as cystitis and urinary retention.

The dose of homeopathic remedy to be taken can vary from one individual to another, also depending on the type of preparation and the type of homeopathic dilution that must be used.