Cornsilk Side Effects

Corn silk, also known as Zea Mays, is derived from the thin yellow strips that vertically encase the corn inside the husk. It is used as an herbal remedy to treat prostate disorders, bed wetting and obesity, among other things. According to OrganizedWisdom.com, Indians regarded corn silk as a symbol of luck, wealth and protection.

Usage

• Corn silk is often taken internally in tea form, but it can be found in pill or liquid form as well. To infuse tea at home, remove the corn silk from the husk, clean it thoroughly and dry it out. Run boiling water over the corn silk, strain and serve. Make sure you use pure corn silk when you ingest a tea or supplement to avoid potential side effects from other additives. Also make sure the corn plant has not been sprayed with pesticides, as they can have negative side effects or reactions, which would defeat the purpose of taking corn silk.

Drying Power

• The tannins in corn silk give it drying power, which is the side effect utilized for treating uterine remedies. You should not take corn silk if you are allergic to tannins. It also contains vitamin K, calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus.

Skin Rashes

• According to RXList.com, itchy skin rashes have been reported as a negative side effect associated with corn silk. This reaction may be due to an allergy to corn.

Limited Potency Time

• Corn silk unfortunately does not have a long shelf life. Do not store it in direct sunlight, excessive heat or a place where moisture can infiltrate. According to PDRHealth, this will cause the corn silk to lose its potency and effectiveness.

Considerations

• Consult your physician before taking corn silk in any form, and immediately report all side effects to you physician. Do not take corn silk if you are or may become pregnant, or if you are nursing. According to OrganizedWisdom.com, you should avoid taking corn silk if you are already taking Lasix.