The Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) is a tree native to North America. The inner bark has been used for centuries and is a soothing medicinal remedy.

The Elm’s inner bark contains substances that become a thick gel when mixed with water. When taken orally, it coats, soothes, and protects the mucus lining of the digestive tract. It is a prebiotic that supports the good bacteria in the gut and has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it is a fiber source, and some believe it has anti-cancer properties.

Digestive benefits of Slippery Elm

It is safe for both dogs and cats, and because of its multiple healing properties, it has been effective in treating and controlling many common digestive problems.

• Diarrhea and vomiting
  • The soothing gel that forms can coat the inflamed digestive tract and soothe the irritation.
  • The anti-inflammatory benefits also soothe the gut
  • The prebiotic benefits help to support and retain the essential probiotics in the gut.
  • Soothing fiber helps retain liquids, prevent dehydration and calm the gut.
• Constipation
  • The fiber benefits help retain fluids in the stool, which can soften a hard stool.
• Ulcers, colitis, gastritis, and other inflammatory bowel disorders can benefit from the soothing anti-inflammatory benefits of Slippery Elm.

Other Uses of Slippery Elm

• The soothing mucus-forming benefits of Slippery Elm can help with the irritation of any mucus membrane in the body.
  • Lungs: Respiratory disorders
  • Urinary bladder: Infection, stones, crystals
  • Mouth: Ulcers, inflamed gums 
• Damage to the skin
  • Combining slippery Elm with water to create a paste and applying it to cuts, scrapes, hot spots, and other minor damage to the skin can reduce inflammation and speed healing.

The many benefits of Slippery Elm make it an ideal natural aid used by itself, and it is often found in combination with other natural ingredients intended for specific problems such as digestive disorders.