The inner bark of the Slippery Elm tree was a popular remedy used by Native Americans.
When you add water to the dried/ground up bark, or when you chew the bark itself it becomes slick, gummy and slimy. The reason for this is its high mucilage content. (Mucilage is a gelatinous substance produced by plants that swells when it comes in contact with water).
Slippery Elm can be used to treat wounds, bruises and skin irritations topically. The mucilage in Slippery Elm helps to soothe inflamed and irritated tissue and coats the surface of mucous membranes internally, or wounds and sores externally. When it’s mixed with water it forms a gel like layer and helps coat infected areas allowing them to heal.
Slippery Elm’s excellent coating abilities makes it perfect for sore throats, bronchitis, coughs and as a gastrointestinal aid. Many people who use Slippery Elm experience relief from acid reflux, peptic ulcers, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, chronic diarrhea, Crohn’s disease and more. The mucilage once again acts as a barrier in these cases and protects the wounded area against further damage.
Traditionally it has been used to treat various infections of the body and parasites.
Slippery Elm is very nutritious. It contains glucose, calcium, iron, vitamin C, zinc, magnesium and potassium to name a few.
Interactions: Though unconfirmed, it may inhibit the absorption of medications because it forms a barrier over the gastrointestinal lining. Separate doses of Slippery Elm and medications by at least 2 hours.