Corn Starch Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Starch is a substance found in many foods that is simply a form of carbohydrate made up of several thousand glucose elements.¹ Corn starch simply refers to starch derived from corn. It is a white powdery substance that lacks both taste and flavor.¹ Corn starch can be purchased from your local grocery store and is often added to foods like soups and gravies as a thickening agent. Corn starch uses also include for some topical treatments in herbal medicine.

Corn Starch Uses and Health Benefits

Corn starch uses are vast. Among them, corn starch benefits radiation patients by providing a natural alternative to synthetic deodorants. Instead of applying deodorant to a radiation treated area, patients can put corn starch on these areas to reduce irritation.² Taking corn starch orally also helps Von Gierke disease patients by helping them avoid low blood sugar.³ Taking a corn starch and water mixture is also recommended for people with iodine poisoning.⁴ Other corn starch uses include for:

• Anal Soreness - Anal soreness can occur due to a number of conditions, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or inflammatory bowel disease. Corn starch can be applied topically to help reduce irritation.
• Diaper Rash (Irritant Diaper Dermatitis) - Diaper rash occurs due to irritating materials stuck inside a child’s diaper, which results in skin rashes around the diaper area. Corn starch helps dry the rash to aid in its healing. Apply it topically between each diaper change.
• Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) - Corn starch is a popular remedy for patients suffering from hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating. Applying it topically can help dry the area and reduce sweat.

Corn Starch Side Effects and Precautions

Corn starch is generally considered safe. However, excessive use of corn starch may result in mild to severe side effects. Mild corn starch side effects include gas when taken orally.⁵ Serious side effects occur when swallowing too much corn starch, which can result in an intestinal blockage.⁶ This can lead to stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, fever, low blood pressure, and other serious complications.⁶ Do not inhale corn starch. This may lead to chest pain and wheezing.⁶ Avoid getting corn starch in your eyes as this can cause redness and irritation.⁶ Talk to your doctor about whether or not a corn starch home remedy is right for you before attempting to self-medicate since you may require more extensive treatment options for your underlying health condition.

References

1. http://www.herbs2000.com/h_menu/starch.htm
2. http://umm.edu/programs/cancer/services/breast/radiation/skincare
3. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/von-gierke-disease
4. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/iodine-poisoning
5. https://iffgd.org/symptoms-causes/intestinal-gas/foods-that-may-cause-gas.html
6. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002741.htm