Last updated: September 30, 2024, Author: Neelam Singh
quick take
Social media posts claim that drinking corn wool or silk water can help treat kidney problems. When we fact-checked the claims, we found that they were mostly false.
claim
A threaded video by @pankajkalandiofficial features an old man talking about how kidney problems are the main cause of death for many people. He claims that all kidney problems can be cured and treated by consuming corn silk water.
fact check
What is corn wool?
Corn silk, or corn wool, is made up of long thread-like bundles that grow from the ears of corn. These chains are important for pollination because each is connected to a potential corn kernel. The pollen travels through the silk and fertilizes the grain, allowing it to develop.
Does corn wool have any benefits?
yes. According to a recent study conducted in Vapi, Gujarat in 2023, corn silk, a thread-like thread obtained from ears of corn, has several health benefits.
Regulating blood sugar levels: Corn silk may help manage diabetes by improving insulin secretion and glucose metabolism and lowering high blood sugar levels. Diuretic: Stimulates urine production, eliminates toxins, and reduces kidney stone formation. Increased urine output also helps reduce water retention. Blood Pressure Control: As a natural diuretic, corn silk helps lower blood pressure by promoting the excretion of excess salt and water and reducing overall blood volume. Cholesterol management: Corn silk may help lower levels of harmful lipids in the blood, which may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants, corn silk fights oxidative stress, protects cells from damage, and promotes overall health. Anti-cancer properties: Certain compounds in corn silk exhibit anti-cancer properties and may inhibit tumor growth. Anti-inflammatory effect: Reduces inflammation and relieves symptoms related to inflammation in the body. Neuroprotective effects: Corn silk has shown potential to protect nerve cells and may be beneficial in neurodegenerative conditions. Cosmetic uses: Useful in skin care as it reduces skin pigmentation and softens the skin. Hair Growth Support: Compounds in corn silk may inhibit hair loss and promote hair growth by blocking hormones associated with thinning hair.
Overall, corn silk is a versatile natural remedy with a variety of health benefits.
Can drinking corn silk tea help treat various kidney problems?
not much. Drinking corn silk tea may have benefits for kidney health, especially those with diabetic nephropathy. Corn silk contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidneys. These properties may help protect kidney cells from damage caused by high blood sugar levels and other metabolic problems.
In 2009, researchers suggested that corn silk may improve blood sugar control. This is important to prevent further kidney damage in diabetics. Additionally, corn silk may positively impact the gut microbiome and reduce harmful metabolites that contribute to kidney problems.
A 2022 study in a kidney failure model showed the ability of corn silk extract to enhance kidney function by promoting the removal of toxins such as urea, potassium, and creatinine, thereby promoting overall kidney health. has been demonstrated.
A study conducted in Egypt showed that corn silk significantly lowers serum glucose levels, improves liver enzyme profiles, and enhances kidney function. Specifically, higher concentrations of corn silk (e.g., 15%) decreased serum uric acid, urea, and creatinine, indicating better kidney health. Histopathological examination also revealed decreased intratubular oxalate crystal deposition and decreased interstitial damage, suggesting a protective effect on kidney tissue.
It’s important to note that while corn silk tea can help manage your kidney health, it is not a cure. Kidney problems often require comprehensive diet, treatment, and management strategies. Always consult a medical professional before using corn silk or herbal remedies as a primary treatment.
expert opinion
We asked Dr. Ubaid-ur-Rahman, a general internist at Holy Mission Clinic in New Delhi, about his claims. “Corn silk has been traditionally used in some cultures to promote kidney health, but scientific evidence suggests that it only helps with certain kidney problems. Rather than providing complete treatment. Kidney problems range from infections to chronic conditions such as kidney failure and require proper medical diagnosis and treatment. However, it is important to consult a medical professional for individual advice.”
Dr. Mohit Sandhu, BAMS|CAD|CAC|PGDAKS|Gurgaon, says, “As a medical practitioner, I recommend that my patients include corn silk water in their diet along with the medications they are currently taking.Symptoms Depending on the severity of the disease, Ayurveda can serve as the main treatment. Although there is scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of corn silk for certain kidney problems, it can also be used as a complementary therapy. It doesn’t cure the problem; its effectiveness for a particular kidney disease depends on the individual and the severity of the condition.”
