Nutritional and medicinal importance of maize in human health

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) has worldwide importance due to its nutritional and medicinal value. It is an excellent source of carbohydrates, dietary fibers, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants which play significant roles in different physiological processes for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases in humans. Decoction of the maize silk, roots, leaves, and cob are used for bladder problems, nausea, vomiting, and stomach complaints. Resistant starch from maize reduces the risk of cecal cancer and atherosclerosis. Its consumption in the diet is beneficial in the reduction of chronic-degenerative diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular and metabolic problems. The rate of genetic gain for further improvement in nutrient content in maize is being accelerated with the rapid advances made in understanding the genetic control of many macro-and micro-nutrients in maize grains with the increased availability and accessibility of new technologies, especially in developing countries of the world.