Slippery elm's therapeutic uses
Slippery elm, derived from the inner bark of the Ulmus rubra tree, has been traditionally used for a variety of therapeutic purposes. Historically favored by Native American tribes and later adopted by European settlers, it is commonly associated with soothing ailments such as sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues. Its mucilaginous properties make it particularly noted for its potential benefits in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, gastritis, and esophageal reflux. Additionally, slippery elm has been used to support skin health, promote lactation in nursing mothers, and aid urinary tract health.
While it remains a popular ingredient in cough lozenges, the scientific research supporting these uses is limited. Some small-scale studies suggest its effectiveness for cough relief, but overall, there is a lack of substantial evidence backing its efficacy for other claims. Slippery elm is generally considered safe, with few reported side effects, though concerns about its safety in specific populations, such as young children and pregnant women, have not been thoroughly investigated. As with any natural remedy, individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before use, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Slippery elm's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Cough, dyspepsia, esophageal reflux, gastritis, hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, skin health, lactation support, urinary tract health
Overview
The dried inner bark of the slippery elm tree was a favorite medicinal substance of many American Indian tribes and was subsequently adopted by European colonists. Like marshmallow and mullein, slippery elm was used as a treatment for sore throat, coughs, dryness of the lungs, skin inflammation, wounds, and digestive tract irritation. It was also made into a porridge to be taken by weaned infants and during recovery from illness. Various heroes of the American Civil War are said to have credited slippery elm with their recovery from war wounds.
Therapeutic Dosages
Cough lozenges made with slippery elm may be consumed as needed. For internal use, a typical dose of slippery elm is 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) three times daily.
Therapeutic Uses
Slippery elm has not been scientifically studied to any significant extent. It remained primarily used in cough lozenges widely available in pharmacies. Small-scale studies have shown benefit from slippery elm for this use when compared to a placebo. Based on its soothing properties, slippery elm has also sometimes been recommended for treating irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), gastritis, esophageal reflux (heartburn), and hemorrhoids. Slippery elm may help constipation, increase milk production in lactating women, and help manage urinary tract inflammation. In its powder form, it may be useful in treating wounds and burns, which is a traditional American Indian use. However, there remained very limited meaningful scientific evidence that it is helpful for any of these conditions.
Safety Issues
Other than occasional allergic reactions, slippery elm has not been associated with any toxicity. However, its safety has been subject to little formal study. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, and those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.
Bibliography
Brinckmann, Josef, et al. "Safety and Efficacy of a Traditional Herbal Medicine (Throat Coat) in Symptomatic Temporary Relief of Pain in Patients with Acute Pharyngitis: A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vol. 9, no. 2, 2003, pp. 285–98, doi:10.1089/10755530360623400. Accessed 16 Sept. 2024.
Castleman, M. "Slippery Elm." The New Healing Herbs. Rev. ed., Rodale Press, 2001.
Pletcher, Peggy and Jacquelyn Cafasso. "The Therapeutic Capabilities of Slippery Elm Bark." Healthline, 8 Mar. 2019, www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/slippery-elm-bark. Accessed 16 Sept. 2024.
"Slippery Elm." Mount Sinai, www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/slippery-elm. Accessed 16 Sept. 2024.