Abstract

Purpose: To determine the therapeutic effect of Corn silk (Zea mays Linn) on intraocular pressure and blood pressure.

Methods: 75 subjects (29 males and 46 females) within the ages of 16 - 30 years, with mean age of 21 ± 3.19years were used. The baseline readings of intraocular pressure and blood pressure were taken and recorded prior to the administration of corn silk extract (100 mls). The intraocular pressure and blood pressure were measured and recorded 90 minutes, 120 minutes, 150 minutes, 180 minutes and 210minutes post administration of corn silk extract.

Results: The mean baseline intraocular pressure (IOP) was 14.8 ± 2.0 mmHg and decreased to 10.5 ± 1.8 mmHg at 150 minutes post administration and increased towards baseline at 210 minutes to 14.1 ± 1.8 mmHg. The mean baseline blood pressure (SBP/DBP) was 111.3 ± 7.8/71.5 ± 7.7 and decreased to 94.3 ± 11.8/61.8 ± 7.0 at 150 minutes but did not increase towards baseline values at 210 minutes rather remained reduced at 94.3 ± 12.3/62.1 ± 7.3.

Conclusion: Corn silk aqueous extract reduces IOP and BP although its effect on IOP is not sustained thus it can be used as supplement in the management of ocular hypertension and hypertension especially due to the fact that it being a waste material in many kitchens is relatively inexpensive and easy to access.

Keywords: Corn Silk (Zea mays Linn); Intraocular Pressure; Blood Pressure

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