Evidence supporting the use of: Corn Silk
For the health condition: Kidney Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Corn silk (the silky threads from the maize plant, Zea mays) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Native American, Chinese, and traditional Western herbalism, for urinary tract complaints, including kidney infections (pyelonephritis). Traditionally, corn silk tea or extracts have been used as a soothing diuretic, believed to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract and reduce inflammation. However, the evidence for corn silk’s effectiveness specifically in treating kidney infection is limited to anecdotal reports and traditional practice.

Scientific studies on corn silk are scarce and mostly limited to in vitro or animal models. Some research suggests that corn silk may have mild diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, which could theoretically support urinary tract health. However, there is a lack of rigorous clinical trials in humans demonstrating clear benefit for kidney infections. Conventional treatment for kidney infections requires antibiotics, as untreated infections can become life-threatening. Therefore, while corn silk is traditionally used as a supportive remedy, it should not be relied upon as a primary or sole treatment for kidney infections. Patients are advised to seek prompt medical care for kidney infections and not substitute corn silk or any herbal remedy for appropriate antibiotic therapy.

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