Advantages of Slippery Elm

Advantages of slippery elm. Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) is a tree indigenous to the central and eastern regions of the United States and Ontario, Canada. The inner bark of this tree has been utilized as a natural remedy for various common health issues, including fevers, wounds, and sore throats.

ADVANTAGES OF SLIPPERY ELM

Also known as red elm or Indian elm, slippery elm is characterized by its dark brown to reddish-brown bark and can grow to a height of 60 to 80 feet. Native Americans traditionally harvested the slimy, red inner bark from its twigs and branches for therapeutic purposes. They discovered that when the bark is combined with water, it produces a sticky substance called mucilage, which is known for its soothing properties. Additionally, Native Americans would wrap the inner bark around meat to preserve it.

1. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

The bark of slippery elm acts as a demulcent, meaning it can soothe the lining of the stomach and intestines while alleviating irritation. Demulcents are often referred to as mucoprotective agents. Recent research indicates that slippery elm bark may assist in alleviating symptoms related to inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A small clinical trial suggested that a formulation containing slippery elm improved bowel movements in patients with constipation-predominant IBS; however, this formulation included multiple ingredients, and no conclusive studies have validated these results.

2. Soothing a Cough and Sore Throat

Slippery elm is rich in mucilage, a sticky blend of sugars that the human digestive system cannot break down. This mucilage coats the throat, which explains why slippery elm is commonly found in various throat lozenges on the market. It is thought to possess antitussive properties, making it beneficial for coughs and symptoms associated with other upper respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or asthma. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to confirm or dispute these assertions.

3. Urinary Tract Irritation

Slippery elm is often suggested for individuals suffering from unexplained inflammation of the urinary tract, such as those diagnosed with interstitial cystitis, commonly referred to as painful bladder syndrome. The powder derived from slippery elm is believed to provide relief by soothing the urinary tract lining, potentially alleviating the discomfort associated with irritating symptoms. However, further research is necessary to validate these assertions. Additionally, as a mild diuretic, slippery elm may enhance urine flow and assist in the removal of waste from the body.

4. Heartburn and GERD

Slippery elm may prove beneficial in managing occasional heartburn, also known as acid reflux. It is regarded as a natural remedy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which irritates its lining.

Summary

Slippery elm is recognized for over-the-counter use as a demulcent, providing relief for sore throats and mucous membranes. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of clinical studies assessing the safety and effectiveness of slippery elm bark. While conclusive evidence regarding its complete safety and non-toxicity is lacking, there have been no documented cases of toxicity or adverse effects. It is important to note that, due to its mucilaginous properties, slippery elm may interfere with the absorption of certain medications, potentially reducing their efficacy.