Slippery Elm
Ulmus rubra
Demulcent inner bark for gut healing and throat comfort
About Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is the powdered inner bark of the North American red elm tree, used for centuries by Indigenous peoples and later adopted into Western herbalism. Like marshmallow, it is rich in mucilage — when mixed with water it forms a thick, slippery gel that coats and soothes the lining of the digestive tract. It is one of the few herbs on the FDA's Over-the-Counter monograph as a safe and effective demulcent for sore throats. Modern herbalists use it for reflux, IBS, and gastritis. Because slippery elm is listed as 'vulnerable' by United Plant Savers due to overharvesting and disease pressure on elm trees, choose a brand that uses sustainably wildcrafted or cultivated bark.
Key benefits
- FDA-recognized demulcent for sore throat relief
- Traditionally used for IBS, reflux, and gut irritation
- Can be eaten as porridge — gentle, easily digestible food
- Lozenges and powders both widely available
How to use
Whisk 1 tsp powder into ½ cup warm (not boiling) water and drink immediately. For a porridge, stir 1 tbsp into hot oatmeal. Lozenges are convenient for throat use. Take medications at least 2 hours apart, as the gel may slow their absorption.
Did you know?
George Washington's army survived part of the brutal winter at Valley Forge by eating slippery elm bark porridge when other food ran out. Native American communities also used it as a traditional famine food and to nourish the sick.