Corn

Corn

The Health Benefits of Corn in TCM and Yakuzen Cooking

Corn

Japanese
Toumorokoshi (とうもろこし)

Yakuzen Classifications

Nature
Neutral（平）
Channels
Liver (肝)
Spleen (脾)
Kidney (腎)
Flavor
Sweet

When summer arrives in Japan, corn is one of the season’s most beloved vegetables. Sweet and versatile, it’s now even enjoyed raw in certain varieties — a refreshing treat that highlights its natural flavor. 

Beyond taste, corn is valued in Yakuzen for its health benefits, especially during Japan’s hot and humid summers. It helps the body release excess moisture, making it an ideal food to stay balanced in the heat. 

Corn silk, in particular, is well known for reducing water retention, and below I’ve shared a simple recipe for corn silk tea you can try at home.

How does Corn help up?

  1. Clear body heat
  2. Promote urination and reduce water retention
  3. Improve spleen and stomach functions

Good for the following symptoms...

  1. Edema
  2. Slow urine flow
  3. Bloated stomach due to dampness
  4. Dizziness due to dampness
  5. Poor appetite
  6. Summer fatigue

Corn Silk Tea Recipe

Step 1 - Wash the corn silk and dry it in the sun for a couple of days.

Step 2 - Put the corn silk in a pot with cold water.

Step 3 - Simmer until the water is reduced by half.