If you’re like most people, you toss corn silk straight into the compost bin or trash. These silky threads that cover ears of corn can be a nuisance to remove — from the cob, your hands and your teeth.
What is corn silk?
Corn silk (Stigma maydis) is the layer of glossy, thread-like strands found between the corn husk and ear. An ear of corn may have 300 to 600 corn silks. They’re a key part of the vegetable’s reproductive system and essential to crop pollination. The fibers trap the pollen that fertilizes the cob and helps kernels grow. Along with the husk, corn silk also protects kernels, helping the ear of corn retain its moisture and sweetness.
What nutrients are in corn silk?
Studies show that corn silk contains:
- Carbohydrates.
- Fiber.
- Minerals like calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, zinc and chloride.
- Protein.
Can you eat corn silk?
Yes! Corn silk has a mild taste and a sweetness you would expect from corn. You can save the silks after husking and use them fresh as a topping on salads, potatoes, soups, tacos and more. You can also dry and store corn silk for up to one year.
To dry corn silk:
- Separate the silk strands as much as possible.
- Place the strands on a cooling rack out of direct sunlight until the water evaporates and the strands feel slightly crispy. (This drying step may take a few days or a week.)
- Place the strands into a closed jar or paper bag and store in a cool, dry place.
- You can grind the dried strands in a blender to make corn silk powder and sprinkle it onto eggs, salads, casseroles and smoothies.
To make corn silk tea:
- Fill a pan with 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of fresh or dried corn silk.
- Cover the pan and cook over medium heat until boiling.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the tea simmer (still covered) for 30 minutes.
- Use a strainer to filter out the strands.
- Enjoy your tea hot or cold.
Who shouldn’t eat corn silk?
Healthcare providers don’t know much yet about the risks of consuming corn silk or products like teas and supplements. Check with your healthcare provider before taking a corn silk supplement, as there currently isn’t a recommended dosage. Dosage amounts typically vary depending on a person’s sex, age, weight, medications and health issues.
For now, Campbell advises against adding corn silk to your diet if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medications such as:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Blood pressure medications.
- Blood thinners.
- Diuretics.
Insulin or diabetes medications.
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