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Stigmata Maydis, commonly known as Corn-silk, is the long, thread-like styles and stigmas from the corn plant, Zea mays.

This traditional herbal remedy is renowned for its effects on urinary health and has been employed in various medical practices for its diuretic and soothing properties.

STIGMATA MAYDIS

SOURCE INFORMATION

Scientific Classification
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Order: Poales
  • Family: Poaceae
  • Genus: Zea
  • Species: Zea mays
Origin
  • Corn-silk comes from the corn plant, native to Central America and widely cultivated around the world.
  • Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine by various cultures, including Native American and European herbalists.
Historical Facts
  • Corn-silk has been used since ancient times in various traditional systems for its medicinal properties.
  • It was commonly used to treat urinary disorders and was also employed in folk remedies for chronic conditions such as malaria.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

Corn-silk primarily influences the urinary system. Its action includes:

  • Diuretic Effect: Promotes increased urine output.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effect: Reduces inflammation of the urinary tract.
  • Soothing Effect: Alleviates discomfort from urinary conditions.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

  • Diuretic: Encourages urine production and helps manage fluid retention.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and discomfort in the urinary tract.
  • Supporting Cardiac Health: Beneficial in managing symptoms related to organic heart disease with associated oedema.

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

URINARY SYSTEM

  • Suppression and Retention: Helps alleviate conditions where urine production is diminished or urine retention occurs.
  • Dysuria: Relieves painful urination.
  • Renal Lithiasis and Nephritic Colic: Assists in managing kidney stones and associated pain.
  • Blood and Red Sand in Urine: Aids in expelling blood and sediment from urine.
  • Vesical Catarrh and Cystitis: Reduces inflammation and discomfort in the bladder.

HEART AND CIRCULATION

  • Organic Heart Disease: Assists in managing heart conditions, especially with oedema in lower extremities and scanty urination.
Other Uses
  • Chronic Malaria: Historically used in decoction for malaria; however, this use is less common in modern practice.

MODALITIES

  • Better: Increased urination and reduction of oedema.
  • Worse: Conditions of urinary retention and discomfort.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER DRUGS

  • Compare: Diuretics and anti-inflammatory agents, such as Uva Ursi (for urinary tract infections) and Cantharis (for burning sensations in the urinary tract).

DOSE

  • Tincture: 10 to 50 drops, adjusted based on individual response and severity of symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the primary uses of Stigmata Maydis?

  • It is primarily used for urinary issues such as retention, dysuria, and kidney stones, and also has applications in managing organic heart disease with fluid retention.

Q: Can Corn-silk be used for chronic conditions like malaria?

  • Historically, Corn-silk was used in decoction for malaria, but this practice is less common today.

Q: What should I do if I experience side effects?

  • Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if side effects or adverse reactions occur.

Glossary of Terms

  • Diuretic: A substance that increases urine production.
  • Dysuria: Painful or difficult urination.
  • Nephritic Colic: Severe pain in the kidneys due to kidney stones or other conditions.
  • Vesical Catarrh: Inflammation of the bladder with mucous discharge.
  • Oedema: Swelling caused by fluid retention.