Slippery Elm Bark

Also Known As – Ulmus rubra, Ulmus fulva, Indian elm, moose elem, red elm, and sweet elm.

Organically Grown USA 

Overview - Slippery elm is a native tree to North America. It is a medium-sized tree that can grow to about 50 feet in height. The branches grow downward. The bark is gummy, with deep fissures and a slight odor. It has long been used as a survival food during times of famine. For instance, during the American Revolution, George Washington and his army survived for several days eating nothing but elm gruel at Valley Forge. It is regrettable that many of these trees have succumbed to Dutch elm disease, and are not found as readily as before.

Medicinal Uses – Internally, Slippery elm is used for sore throat, cough, respiratory problems, diarrhea, gastritis, ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems. It is a common ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine and in Ayurvedic treatments. Both use this herb for bloody diarrhea and other problems of the digestive tract. Externally, Slippery elm is used topically for wounds, boils, burns and other conditions of the skin. It can also be used to soften skin.

• Studies are showing that the herb may be useful for inflammatory bowel disease. It is beneficial to internal mucosal tissues, like the stomach and vaginal lining and the esophagus. It can ease the soreness resulting from prolonged flu, digestive upset and chronic indigestion.

Parts Used - The inner bark of the tree is used medicinally.

Precautions - If taken according to directions, there are no known dangers for slippery elm. If you take prescription medications, the herb may decrease their effectiveness. Because of this effect, take several hours before or after your dose of prescription medications. It is considered to be safe for pregnant women, babies and the elderly.

Suggested Preparation and Dosage - Slippery elm can be found in tablets, capsules, lozenges, powdered bark that is used to make infusions, decoctions and tinctures, and coarse powder for poultices.

• For a poultice, mix the coarse powder with boiling water to make a paste.
• Lozenges should be taken according to directions on the label.
• Two (250 to 500 mg) capsules can be taken three times a day.
• For an infusion, pour 2 cups of boiling water over 4 grams of powdered bark. Allow it to steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Drink this infusion three times a day.
• For a decoction, simmer one part powdered bark to eight parts water for an hour or longer. The drink will be mucilaginous in texture and can be taken as needed. It can also be added to oatmeal or juice.

Disclaimer - These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. Reviews are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care or the advice of a physician or another medical professional. Actual results may vary among users. Mountain Maus Remedies LLC makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information contributed by outside product review submissions, and assumes no responsibility or liability regarding the use of such information. The information and statements regarding the dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you should work with your health care provider before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen, including augmenting your regimen with any herb or dietary supplements. Do not attempt to self-diagnose any disease or ailment based on the reviews and do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or suspect you have an undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician or health care practitioner.