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Slippery elm bark benefits are numerous. The inner white bark holds all medicinal attributes and should be kept on hand. The dark outer bark is also available. However, it is utterly useless. Slippery elm bark helps treat gastritis, leukorrhea, rheumatoid and gouty conditions, ulcerative colitis, ulcers, tonsilitis, stomach problems, lung congestion, hoarseness, hemorrhoids, bleeding, gas, flu, eczema, dysentery, diverticulitis, diarrhea, cystitis, coughs, ovarian cramps, constipation, colitis, bronchitis, and bladder inflammation.
In addition, the plant can also be helpful against Crohn’s disease and as an excellent cleanser employed as a douche for eczema. Slippery elm makes a highly nutritious gruel for the elderly, children with weak stomachs, and those with ulcers recovering from diseases. The gruel is made by slowly adding a small amount of water and mixing until the correct consistency is achieved, which can be sweetened with a bit of honey.
Slippery elm is excellent for those who have difficulty holding and digesting food. The herb can also be used externally for open sores, tumors, hemorrhoids, gangrenous wounds, burns, and painful rheumatic and gouty areas.
NOTE: Slippery elm is a great binder. A tiny amount can be combined with other herbs with a bit of water and then rolled into small pills. Slippery elm lozenges can be made by adding a little maple syrup that can be used to treat coughs and sore throats. The plant can also hold unleavened bread together, boluses, and suppositories. Make sure to dilute it with water if you use it as a douche or enema. Since the herb is mucilaginous, it can clog the apparatus.
How to use Slippery Elm Bark
- Infusion (powder): Slowly pour one pint of boiling water over one ounce of powdered bark, stirring constantly. Simmer for five to fifteen minutes, then take six ounces three to four times daily.
- Decoction (whole bark)—Simmer for five to fifteen minutes and take three ounces three to four times daily.
- Tincture—Take fifteen to thirty drops three to four times daily.
- Fluid Extract—Take ½ to one teaspoon three to four times daily.
- Gruel—Mix one teaspoon of powder with enough cold water to make a thin and very smooth paste; while stirring it steadily, pour one pint of boiling water onto the paste. Flavor with lemon rind and honey, and take ½ to one pint (warm) one to three times daily.
- Syrup—Take one tablespoon as needed.
- Powder—Take five to ten #0 capsules (30 to 60 grains) three to four times daily.
Slippery Elm Scientific Facts
1. Scientific Name—Ulmus fulva.
2. Part of the plant used medicinally—Inner (not outer) bark.
3. Properties—Demulcent, emollient, nutritive, astringent.
4. What it affects—Generally affects the whole body.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve heard slippery elm bark is a demulcent. What does that mean in practical terms, and how does this benefit the gut?
A demulcent is like a soothing balm for irritated tissues. When you consume slippery elm (often as a tea or lozenge), the mucilage it contains coats the lining of your digestive tract. This can be incredibly beneficial for those with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In a study circulated in the Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine, slippery elm significantly reduced symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating in IBD patients.
Can slippery elm bark help with acid reflux and heartburn? Is it just a temporary fix?
It’s not just a quick fix. Slippery elm’s coating action can provide lasting relief for those struggling with acid reflux and GERD. Protecting the esophagus from stomach acid can reduce irritation and inflammation. A review in the Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics Journal found that slippery elm, combined with other herbs, effectively managed GERD symptoms.
I’m interested in using slippery elm for my cough. How does it work, and is it better than over-the-counter cough syrups?
Slippery elm bark isn’t just for the gut! Its mucilage can also soothe an irritated throat and suppress the cough reflex. While it may not have the same immediate, numbing effect as some cough syrups, it offers a more natural method with fewer side effects.
Can slippery elm be used topically for skin issues? If so, what kind of conditions does it help?
Absolutely! Slippery elm’s anti-inflammatory properties extend to the skin. It can be used as a poultice or added to creams to soothe burns, rashes, and psoriasis. Anecdotal evidence suggests it may also speed wound healing, though more research is needed.
Are there any side effects or dangers?
Slippery elm is generally safe when used appropriately. However, it can hinder the absorption of certain medications. It is essential to take slippery elm at least one hour before or after other medicines. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should discuss it with a healthcare professional before using slippery elm.
Can slippery elm bark be used for constipation? I’ve heard conflicting information about this.
I’m looking for a natural remedy for ulcers. Can slippery elm bark help, and if so, how?
Slippery elm bark benefits extend to those suffering from ulcers. Its mucilage can coat and protect the stomach lining, potentially promoting healing. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that slippery elm extract protected against ulcers in rats. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in humans.
Do you recommend any specific brands of slippery elm bark products?
The quality of slippery elm products can vary. Look for reputable brands that use organic, sustainably sourced bark. Traditional Medicinals and Frontier Co-op are well-regarded brands that offer slippery elm in various forms.
Can I find slippery elm bark in nature, and is it safe to harvest and prepare myself?
While slippery elm trees are native to North America, overharvesting due to Dutch elm disease has made them less common. If you find one, it’s crucial to harvest bark responsibly and only from mature trees, as removing too much bark can harm or kill the tree.
I’m already taking several supplements and medications. Is it safe to add slippery elm bark to my routine?
As always, consult with your physician or a healthcare professional before adding slippery elm bark to your regimen, especially if you take other medications or supplements. They can help you clarify the appropriate dosage and ensure it doesn’t interact with anything else you’re taking.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 180.
- Langmead, L., Dawson, C., Hawkins, C., Banna, N., Loo, S., & Rampton, D. S. (2002). Complementary and alternative medicine use in inflammatory bowel disease: Results of a United Kingdom survey. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 8(2), 181–187. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12006019
- Thompson Coon, J., & Ernst, E. (2003). Herbal medicines for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) — a systematic review. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 17(6), 749–757. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12725542
- Langmead, L., Rampton, D. S. (2012). Review article: Complementary and alternative therapies for inflammatory bowel disease. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 36(4), 341-353. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22762226
- Swisher, K. D. (2010). Ulmus rubra Mucilage Protects Against Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 130(1), 107–112. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20347907
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