Evidence supporting the use of: Cornsilk
For the health condition: Incontinence
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Cornsilk (the long, thread-like styles of the corn plant) has been used in various traditional medicine systems, particularly in Native American, Chinese, and traditional European herbal remedies. Historically, cornsilk tea or extracts have been employed as a mild diuretic and to soothe urinary tract irritation, which led to its use in conditions like cystitis, prostatitis, and sometimes incontinence. The rationale was that its supposed soothing and anti-inflammatory properties could calm the urinary tract and potentially help with involuntary urination or overactive bladder symptoms.
However, scientific evidence supporting the use of cornsilk for incontinence is very limited. Most modern research has focused on cornsilk’s diuretic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, usually in animal models or in vitro. There are very few, if any, rigorous clinical studies in humans specifically investigating incontinence. The available data does not demonstrate a clear mechanism by which cornsilk would address the underlying causes of urinary incontinence, such as detrusor muscle overactivity or sphincter weakness. As such, while its use is rooted in tradition, any benefit for incontinence remains unproven and is not validated by contemporary clinical science.
In summary, cornsilk’s use for incontinence is primarily traditional, with minimal scientific evidence to support its efficacy for this specific condition.