| Slippery Elm |
| Parts Used The inner bark |
|
| Common
Uses |
 |
Coats, protects and soothes inflamed mucus
membranes in the throat, mouth and digestive tract. |
|
Soothes sore and irritated throats |
|
Helps to relieve coughs |
|
Helps to relieve diarrhea, ulcers, heartburn
and other gastric problems |
|
Applied externally in a poultice it soothes
and protects minor wound, burns, boils and skin irritations. Also acts as a mild
astringent. |
|
|
How Slippery Elm Works
The inner bark of the Slippery Elm contains large
amounts of mucilage. When this comes in contact with water it becomes spongy and is able
to coat and protect mucus membranes. There are also polysaccharides, a kind of
carbohydrate, in the
bark and these also act as soothing agents. |
| The FDA has stated that the inner bark of the slippery elm
is a safe and effective demulcent (soothing agent) for the relief of sore throats. |
|
Side Effects
No major side effects are known at this time. |
| Some people may develop an irritation when using
slippery elm on the skin. If this occurs discontinue use. |
|
History of Slippery Elm
The Slippery Elm is a large, stately tree native to the eastern
areas of North America. It reaches heights of up to 60 feet, has broad, toothed leaves and
deeply furrowed bark. The inner bark is glue-like and slightly fragrant. There were once
great forests of Slippery Elms but sadly these were decimated by Dutch Elm disease. |
| Slippery Elm was a popular herbal remedy with
the Native Americans and later with the settlers. They used it to soothe sore throats and
coughs, and also to treat stomach complaints including diarrhea and ulcers. It was
also applied as a poultice to wounds, boils, sores and other skin problems. |
| A nutritious gruel can be made from the powder
of the inner bark and this was given to anyone who was sick or recovering. This is still
recommended today by many herbalists for convalescence. |
