Slippery Elm Bark

Species name:  Ulmus rubra.

The bark of the Slippery Elm tree has some great herbal and medicinal uses that you may not be aware of. In addition to many common uses such as making stings and rope, certain parts of the Slippery Elm tree and its bark have medicinal uses.

What is Slippery Elm Bark: Slippery Elm is a species of elm tree native to eastern North America from southeast North Dakota east to southern Quebec and south to northernmost Florida and eastern Texas. The Slippery Elm is a deciduous tree that grows to about 10-20 m tall. The leaves are 10-18 cm long, with a rough texture, roughly double-serrate margin and a slanted base. The flowers are produced before the leaves in early spring and in clusters of 10-20.

The fibrous inner bark is a strong and durable fiber, which can be spun into thread, twine or rope. It can be used for bow strings, ropes, jewelry, clothing, snowshoe bindings, woven mats, and even some musical instruments. There are also medicinal uses for Slippery Elm bark.

Home Remedies using Slippery Elm Bark:

Benefits of Slippery Elm Bark:

There are many benefits to slippery elm bark. It is often crushed into a powder or made into tea for easier consumption. All throughout history, it has been used to help treat many conditions and diseases. In recent times, the FDA has also approved it for some common uses today. Slippery elm is also considered a nutritious dietary food, similar in texture to oatmeal and can be prepared as porridge.

It contains mucilage that is an excellent remedy for sore throats. Native Americans often used slippery elm in healing salves for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation. The FDA has recognized Slippery Elm as a safe and effective option include sore throat (pharyngitis) and respiratory symptoms, such as cough. Herbalists also recommend it for external use to treat wounds, cuts, and certain skin conditions, including diaper rash.

Uses of Slippery Elm Bark:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Sore throat
• Cough
• To treat wounds
• To treat burns and skin inflammation
• Cancer treatment
• Skin softener
• Mild respiratory ailments
• Diarrhea
• Tablets and capsules
• Lozenges
• Finely powdered bark for drinks (infusions and decoctions and liquid extracts)
• Coarsely powdered bark for poultices

Side Effects of Slippery Elm Bark:

No known side effects and is considered a safe herb.