Corn silk: A promising source of antimicrobial compounds for health and wellness

Abstract

Abstract Microbial diseases remain a leading cause of death worldwide, and the emergence of new infections underscores the need for innovative treatments. Plant-based sources for antimicrobial drugs are gaining popularity due to their fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs. Corn silk (CS), an ancient medicinal plant, has been used for thousands of years to treat ailments such as edema and cystitis. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals and acts as an anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, anti-cancerous, antioxidant, and antimicrobial agent. Its bioactive components, which include phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenes, and saponins, are responsible for these therapeutic benefits. Numerous studies have examined the antibacterial effectiveness of diverse CS extracts, unveiling several methods by which CS demonstrates its antimicrobial properties. These mechanisms include the inhibition of energy production within microbial cells, interference with DNA and protein synthesis, prevention of biofilm formation, disruption of cell wall synthesis, and direct disruption of the cell wall structure. CS effectively blocks microbial growth and multiplication by focusing on these vital processes. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the different bioactive compounds found in CS, as well as their mechanisms of action against microbes. Understanding these mechanisms highlights CS’s potential as a potent source for developing new antimicrobial medications and supplements, offering a natural and effective alternative in the fight against infectious diseases.