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Slippery
Elm
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| Parts
Used The inner bark |
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| Common
Uses |
 |
Coats, protects and
soothes inflamed mucus membranes in the throat, mouth and
digestive tract. |
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Soothes sore and
irritated throats |
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Helps to relieve
coughs |
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Helps to relieve
diarrhea, ulcers, heartburn and other gastric problems |
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Applied externally
in a poultice it soothes and protects minor wound,
burns, boils and skin irritations. Also acts as a mild
astringent. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
