Slippery Elm Herbal Remedies
Slippery elm is a mucilaginous herb used internally to soothe duodenal ulcers, gastritis, chronic diarrhea, sore throats, and coughs. Slippery elm lozenges are excellent to ease a sore throat or relieve any irritation or inflammation of the digestive tract. It is applied locally for wounds, abscesses, and burns. Slippery elm is made into a gruel for convalescence. Some modern herbalists suggest replacing slippery elm with marshmallow root, as slippery elm is becoming scarce. To make a cold infusion, soak 1 ounce of the shredded bark in 1 pint of cool water until a mucilaginous gel is formed. Use this preparation by the cupful as a soothing drink. Slippery Elm has a taste of SWEET and a temperature of NEUTRAL.
Slippery Elm Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Slippery Elm Decoction | 1 cup 2-3 x daily |
Slippery Elm Reference Information
| Latin Name | Ulmus rubra |
| Other Names | Elm bark |
| Part Used | Bark |
| Herb Forms | Tincture, capsule, lozenge, bulk herb, powder. |
| Affects | Digestive system, Respiratory system |
| Cautions | None noted. |
| Botanical Info | Slippery elm is a large tree of the eastern hardwood forests that grows to sixty feet high. The inner bark is harvested to make medicinal tea and other preparations. |
Supporting Research
Newall, C. et al.. 1996. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Felter, H.W. and J.U. Lloyd. 1983. (1898). King's Dispensatory. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Madaus, G. 1976. Lehrbuch der Biologischen Heilmittel. Hildesheim: Georg Olms Verlag.
Bradley, P.R., ed. 1992. British Herbal Compendium. Dorset: British Herbal Medicine Association.
Kuts-Cheraux, A.W., ed. 1953. Naturae Medicina. Des Moines: American Naturopathic Physicians & Surgeons Association.