Gut microbiome health using corn silk: A natural approach to restoring microbial balance

This review discusses corn silk (Zea mays L.), which is an under-explored agricultural byproduct, as a potential natural modulator of the human gut microbiome. There are many chronic conditions associated with gut dysbiosis. The high phytochemical content of corn silk, which comprises of polysaccharides/fibre and flavonoids, implies a double effect (1) fermentable substrate to be fed on by beneficial microbes to generate Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), and (2) changing the intestinal environment via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pre-clinical data suggest that corn silk is capable of changing microbial structure in a foreseeable and beneficial way and enhancing metabolic performance of dysbiosis models. Its action extends past the gut to affect metabolic, immune and even the neurological axes. Although limited to human clinical trials, corn silk is a promising safe, natural compound to maintain microbial balance and promote well-being of the system in general.