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If you have ever made fresh corn, then you know about those hair-like strands that are so hard to clean up. But what you might not have known is they can actually be valuable.
Corn silk tea is actually a Native American and Chinese medicinal tea. It was rumored that Corn silk tea had been used as a remedy for UTIs (urinary tract infections) and as a salve applied over bruises by the Mayans, Incas, and Native Americans.
Other benefits can include the ability to:
- May reduce inflammation from UTIs
- May reduce high blood pressure
- May reduce cholesterol
Corn Silk Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh or dried corn silk
Directions:
- Add corn silk and water to a pot and bring to a boil.
- When it comes to a boil, turn down to low and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Bring off heat and let it steep for 30 minutes.
- Remove corn silk and let it cool before drinking.
- Drink and enjoy!
Side Effects & Precautions
According to WebMD, side effects can be rare if you consume this tea in moderation. But if you have low or high blood pressure or problems with your potassium levels, this tea could make these issues worse, because it is a diuretic (it can induce urination).Â
If you are allergic to corn, cornstarch, corn silk, or corn pollen this tea can cause rashes, red skin, or itchiness.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not drink this tea. It is also not safe for children.
If you have a medical history of liver problems or kidney problems, you should talk to your doctor before drinking this tea. You should talk to your doctor if you take any kind of medication to avoid any negative interactions. Although you should contact your doctor as you would if you started taking any new supplement.
Conclusion
Corn silk tea can be purchased in most health food stores or online. However, if you don’t like tea, you can add corn silk to salads or sandwiches after cutting the strands shorter. Make sure to cut them because if you don’t, it can become an extreme choking hazard. In conclusion, I think corn silk tea is definitely worth adding to your daily self-care regimen.