Slippery Elm
Botanical Name
Ulmus rubra (syn. Ulmus fulva)
Common Name
Slippery elm, red elm, soft elm, moose elm
Family
Ulmaceae
Parts Used
Inner bark
Native To
Slippery elm is native to Southern Ontario as well as the Central and Eastern United States
Harvesting Guidelines
Due to scarcity issues with slippery elm, it is important not to harvest from living trees. Please only wildcraft bark from naturally fallen branches.
Slippery elm, a tree native to North America, has been utilized by various Native American tribes for centuries for its medicinal properties. The Cherokee and Alabama tribes have used it to ease childbirth and prolonged labor, while the Catawba have used it to treat consumption and the Cherokee for dysentery. Slippery elm is also known for its demulcent properties, making it effective in soothing inflammation and diarrhea. Its versatility has made it a popular choice in many herbal traditions. (1)
Slippery elm is a versatile herb that has been used for a variety of ailments. According to herbalist and author Michael Tierra, it can be used for sore throat, coughs, lung problems, digestive issues, and nausea. What makes slippery elm unique is its mucilaginous nature, which means it is moist and gooey and can effectively soothe and moisten dry, irritated, and debilitated tissues. In Ayurveda, slippery elm is used to soothe irritated mucous membranes and ulcerated tissues, such as in the case of ulcerative colitis, sore throat, burns, and skin eruptions. (2)
Slippery elm is a versatile herb that has been used for a variety of ailments. According to herbalist and author Michael Tierra, it can be used for sore throat, coughs, lung problems, digestive issues, and nausea. What makes slippery elm unique is its mucilaginous nature, which means it is moist and gooey and can effectively soothe and moisten dry, irritated, and debilitated tissues. In Ayurveda, slippery elm is used to soothe irritated mucous membranes and ulcerated tissues, such as in the case of ulcerative colitis, sore throat, burns, and skin eruptions. (3)
Adult Dose (4)
Powder: 500 mg-2 g/day
Capsules: 2-3 “00” capsules 2-3x/day
Gruel: 2-3 tablespoons of gruel 2-3x/day
Infusion: 4-8 fl oz cold infusion (1 oz dried bark in 1 quart water) as needed
Safety:
While slippery elm is generally considered safe, it may not be suitable for everyone. According to ayurvedic principles, individuals with high levels of toxins, lung congestion, phlegm, or edema should avoid slippery elm. Additionally, those with a high kapha constitution may want to steer clear of this herb as it can increase kapha dosha. To aid digestion and increase its digestibility, slippery elm can be taken with warm spices like clove or cinnamon. It's important to note that while there are no serious safety concerns associated with slippery elm, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements or herbs to your routine. (5)
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References:
(1) Taylor, L.A. (1940). Plants used as curatives by certain Southeastern tribes. Cambridge, MA: Botanical Museum of Harvard University. Retrieved from http://www.wildonesniagara.org/images/PlantsUsedAsCuratives.pdf
(2) Frawley, D., & Lad, V. (2001). The yoga of herbs. Twin Lakes, WI: Lotus Press.
(3) Tierra, M. (1998). The way of herbs. New York, NY: Pocket Books.
(4) Kane, C.W. (2009). Herbal medicine: Trends and traditions. Tucson, AZ: Lincoln Town Press.
(5)Frawley, D., & Lad, V. (2001). The yoga of herbs. Twin Lakes, WI: Lotus Press.
Scientific Research:
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