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Slippery Elm
(Ulmus fulva)
Description
Found throughout North America, slippery elm contains high
quantities of mucilage, which is a gelatinous material used
to soothe inflamed tissue. This property of slippery elm makes
it extremely useful in treating many external and internal
disorders, which cause Inflammation.
Herbal Uses
A favourite of Native Americans,
slippery elm bark was used to treat Sore Throat, Coughs, dryness
of the lungs, Wounds, Skin Inflammations, and irritations
of the digestive tract (1, 2). It was also prepared as a porridge
to be given to weaned infants. Civil War heroes claimed slippery
elm aided their recovery from wounds.
Suggested Intakes
For Coughs, use lozenges
as needed.
For digestive disorders,
1) prepare honey-sweetened porridge and eat as desired
OR
2) take 500-1000mg of capsulized powder three times daily.
Part of the herb used: INNER
BARK.
Supplemental Uses
Soothing properties:
Little scientific evidence on slippery elm bark is available.
Today, slippery elm bark is used mainly in Cough lozenges.
Sometimes it is recommended for the following disorders: Irritable
bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's
Disease and Ulcerative colitis), Gastritis, oesophageal reflux
(Heartburn), and Haemorrhoids.
Skin conditions:
Slippery elm may be applied topically for Wounds, cuts, abrasions,
and other surface irritations.
Safety and Precautions
Aside from occasional allergic
reactions, slippery elm is relatively non-toxic. Formal studies
have never been conducted on its safety.
Safety in young children,
nursing or pregnant women, and patients with severe liver
kidney disease has not been determined.
Slippery elm bark can cause
Dermatitis while the pollen is allergenic.
Interactions and Contra-Indications
Regular use of slippery
elm bark may affect the absorption of tetracycline derivatives,
oral anti-cholinergics, phenothiazines, digoxin, isoniazid,
phenytoin, nalidixic acid, sulfonamides, and warfarin.
Slippery elm bark may potentiate
the antibiotic activity of Echinacea. To counter the effect,
add milk or cream to tea.
Slippery elm bark may affect
the urinary excretion of alkaline drugs, such as amphetamines
and quinidine.
Use with caution in conjunction
with CNS depressants or stimulants.
Sedatives, hypnotics, and
beta-adrenergic blocking agents may inhibit the anti-inflammatory
activity of the herb.
References
1. Castleman M. The
healing herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1991: 342-344.
2. Hyde, F.F. British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. British Herbal
Medicine Assoc: West Yorks, England. 1983. | 
