Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

← All supplements
Limited evidenceGeneral health

Corn Silk

The silky styles of maize, used traditionally as a soothing diuretic for bladder irritation. Nearly all research is chemical and preclinical, and the few human reports are small and poorly controlled.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Bladder and urinary use Limited evidence

    Narrative reviews of corn silk phytochemistry catalogue diuretic and anti-inflammatory activity in animal models, and reviews of urinary botanicals list it as a traditional demulcent for bladder irritation. No randomised controlled trial has tested corn silk for urinary symptoms.

  • Blood glucose Limited evidence

    A small study in human male subjects reported effects of corn silk on glycaemic markers, alongside a larger body of rodent and in-silico work on its flavonoids. The human study was small and published in a low-visibility journal, so it should not be treated as established.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo trial-established dose. Traditional preparation is 4–8 g of dried silk as an infusion two to three times daily; capsules typically supply 400–500 mg.
SafetyGenerally regarded as gentle and it has a long history of food-adjacent use. Its diuretic reputation means caution alongside diuretic drugs and in people with heart or kidney failure, and it may add to the effect of blood-pressure and blood-glucose medications. Allergy to maize is a contraindication. Insufficient data in pregnancy.

Scientific references

Where to buy

View on iHerb

Referral link — this site may earn a commission on purchases.

Related in General health