TCM Basics 101: Supermarket Herbs - Corn Silk
TCM Nature: Cooling
TCM Taste: Slightly Bitter, Sweet, Astringent
TCM Meridian Affinity: Kidney, Liver, Bladder, Gallbladder
Benefits:
· Clears Damp Heat from Liver and Gallbladder
· Reduces bloating, gout, wasting and thirsting disorder
· Promotes and regulates urination
· Reduces edema
· Softens masses and stones
· Restores life essence
Spirituality:
Corn silk is a symbol of fertility and rejuvenation and has also been used for protection. Since corn silk is a part of the corn plant, it holds all the magical properties that corn or corn husks do.
Native Americans have passed down numerous tales about the miraculous properties of corn. According to legend, the Zuni tribe’s culture changed from one of warfare to one of agriculture as a result of the Corn Maidens’ dance, resulting in a period of peace and economic growth. Zea Mays, which means “cause of life” or “our mother” in Zuni and Hopi, is the scientific name for corn. Obviously, it played a crucial role in both their daily lives and their religious practices.