A review of phytochemicals isolated from corn silk and their medicinal applications

Abstract

Corn silk (Stigma maydis) is an important herb employed in traditional medicine in many parts of the world, such as Nigeria, China, Turkey, France, United States to mention a few. It has been used as diuretic, antilithiasic, uricosuric, antiseptic in the treatment of cystitis, gout, nephritis, tumor, hepatitis, edema, kidney stones, diabetic, inflammation reduction, prostate disorder/problems/prostatitis, urinary tract infections, bedwetting, obesity, malaria, heart problems, soothes and relaxes the lining of the bladder and urinary tubules, reduces irritation and increasing urine secretion, exerts anti-fatigue activity, exhibits anti-depressant activity and kaliuretic, excellent antioxidant capacity, demonstrates protective effects in radiation and nephrotoxicity, lowers high blood pressure (by reducing fluid retention in the body and also by eliminating toxins which could relieve symptoms of gout, edema and arthritis), promotes relaxation, cures hypercholesterolemia and urinary infections associated diseases, effective for weight loss amongst other. The potential use of corn silk is very much connected to its properties and mode of action of its bioactive phytoconstituents. Hence, this review covers the traditional uses, twenty – five isolated bioactive phytochemicals, their bioactivity and medical/healthcare applications.