Biochemical Composition of Corn Silk Tea on Stz Induced Diabetic Rat

Student: OMOWUNMI ALIMOT BELLO (Project, 2025)
Department of Biochemistry
Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State

Abstract

Corn silk (Stigma maydis) is the long thread-like structures found on corn ears which have been widely recognized for its therapeutic properties,particularly in managing diabetes and its associated complications. This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical composition and antidiabetic potential of corn silk tea, specifically its effects on liver function in STZ-induced diabetic rats. The activities of Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) were measured using the method described by Reitman and Frankel, while Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) was assayed according to Wright. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in ALT (35.24 ± 1.31), AST (47.13 ± 0.59), and ALP (49.24 ± 5.91) levels in the corn silk tea-treated group compared to the diabetic control, suggesting hepatoprotective effects. Corn silk tea’s antioxidant-rich composition mitigated oxidative stress and improved liver function, with its effects comparable to Metformin, a standard diabetic treatment. These findings support the potential of corn silk tea as a natural alternative or adjunct therapy for managing diabetes-induced liver dysfunction and highlight its value in diabetes care

Keywords
Diabetic patient corn silk STZ ALT AST ALP
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