Yu Mi Xu
Zea mays L.
โฏ TCM Properties
Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema; Clears Damp-Heat and Resolves Jaundice; Calms the Liver; Benefits the Gallbladder; Lowers Blood Sugar
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Zea mays, maize or corn, is a robust annual grass in the Poaceae family, domesticated from teosinte in southern Mexico approximately 9000 years ago and now grown globally. The plant reaches 1-4 m with a single stout jointed culm bearing long flat lanceolate leaves arranged distichously. Maize is monoecious: a terminal tassel produces male staminate flowers, while one or more lateral cobs enclosed in husk leaves bear female pistillate florets, each with an elongated silky style (the 'silk') 15-30 cm long protruding from the husk to receive pollen. Yu Mi Xu is the dried styles and stigmas (corn silk), collected at flowering before pollination is complete.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Yu Mi Xu (corn silk) is a mild, sweet, neutral herb used in Chinese medicine to promote urination, reduce edema, and support the Liver and Gallbladder. It addresses urinary difficulty, edema of the limbs, urinary stones, and urinary tract infections from Damp-Heat. Its gentle action on the Liver and Gallbladder makes it useful for jaundice and gallstones from Damp-Heat obstruction, and for supporting healthy blood sugar metabolism. As a food-safe herb available in any corn-growing region, it is among the most accessible diuretic herbs.
Traditional American Uses
Zea mays is documented in the NAEB database with approximately fifty recorded uses across diverse tribes; while the great majority are food, dye, ceremonial, and fiber applications, three are medicinal (Drug class) โ dermatological aid, kidney aid, and pulmonary aid โ drawing on different parts of the plant including silks, kernels, and meal (NAEB).
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.