Natural remedy: Corn silk has been used in herbal medicine as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract infections and inflammation. Harvested easily: The thin, wispy strands that emerge from corn ears can be collected after the corn has matured and dried for future use. Gentle diuretic: Corn silk is a mild diuretic that increases urine output to help flush the urinary tract and may relieve symptoms of UTIs and bladder infections. May soothe irritation: The anti-inflammatory properties in corn silk can help soothe irritation and swelling of the urinary tract tissues.