Corn Silk (Stigma maydis) Powder for Management of Functional Constipation: An Interventional Study
Rita Singh Raghuvanshi
*
Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India.
Akanksha Singh
Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India.
Apurva
Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Functional constipation is widely recognized as a common disorder across the world, although its reported prevalence differs considerably according to age, gender, diagnostic approach, country, and geographical region.
Aim: The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of corn silk powder (CSP) in improving bowel function among adults with functional constipation.
Study Design: A randomized controlled dietary intervention.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Food and Nutrition, GBPUAT Pantnagar; conducted over 15 days among adult participants diagnosed with functional constipation.
Methodology: A total of 105 adults aged 18–75 years, diagnosed using the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), were randomly allocated into three groups of 35 each: Group I (Gp5g) received 5 g/day CSP, Group II (Gp10g) received 10 g/day CSP, and a control group received no supplementation. Stool consistency and gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded at baseline and post-intervention. Statistical analysis was performed to compare intra- and inter-group differences, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: Both intervention groups demonstrated significant improvement in stool consistency compared to the control group (p<0.05). By Day 5, a majority of participants in Gp5g and Gp10g achieved normal stool consistency (BSFS types 4–5). The Gp5g group showed gradual and sustained improvement with minimal side effects, whereas Gp10g exhibited a faster response but a higher incidence of loose stools (BSFS type 6). No serious adverse effects were reported. Participants in both supplemented groups reported improved ease and frequency of defecation.
Conclusion: Corn silk powder is an effective and well-tolerated dietary intervention for managing functional constipation. A daily dose of 5 g appears optimal, balancing efficacy and tolerability. CSP holds potential as a low-cost, natural therapeutic option for community-level management of constipation, although further studies are recommended to validate long-term outcomes.
Keywords: Bowel regularity, Bristol stool form scale, community intervention, dietary fiber