Historically, cornflower is renowned for its use as a soothing eyewash, especially in France. With its anti-inflammatory qualities paired alongside its antiseptic properties, the herb is believed to be an effective eyewash when treating conjunctivitis.

People take cornflower tea to treat fever, constipation, water retention, and chest congestion. They also take it as a tonic, bitter, and liver and gallbladder stimulant. Women take it for menstrual disorders and vaginal yeast infections.

Cornflower is thought to aid in soothing stomach ulcers, while rinsing with the tea is used to speed the healing of sores or bleeding gums in the mouth.

Stronger infusions of the flower buds have been used to treat urinary tract infections, as the properties of the plant include antibiotic and antiseptic qualities

A highly concentrated infusion of the flower heads, either fresh or dried, can be used as a wash on the scalp to get rid of dandruff. Furthermore, the herb can be used to sooth eczema flare-ups.