What Is Slippery Elm Used For?

Native Americans have been using parts of the slippery elm tree medicinally for centuries. This tree, native to North America, can grow up to 50 feet in height and has long green leaves. However, it is the bark that has been used medically. The bark may be referred to as gummy in texture. It is peeled from the tree, dried and then pulverized into a powder to be administered either orally or as a paste for topical treatment.

Skin Conditions

• Slippery elm contains a substance known as mucilage, which can be made into a paste that coats the skin and provides a protective barrier for a variety of skin conditions, including burns, cuts, boils and even certain rashes. Mix slippery elm powder with water to create the paste that will resemble a gel.

Cough and Sore Throat

• Slippery elm can be found in tablet or lozenge form at most local health food stores. Both are effective in treating cough and sore throat. According to The People's Pharmacy, an alternative health news site by Joe and Terry Graedon, mucilage does more than soothe irritated skin. The gel-like substance can also coat the throat to alleviate irritation, and slippery elm is an effective expectorant, which can ease congestion and soothe a cough.

Urinary Tract Infection

• Slippery elm contains tannins, an astringent that has the capacity to shrink proteins in the blood and urine. Tannins are considered effective by some in treating urinary tract infections as they filter much of the excessive protein from the urine, which allows for more effective elimination.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

• The University Of Maryland Medical Center identifies slippery elm as a possible treatment for GERD, a common disorder in which stomach acids enter the esophagus, and cause frequent and severe heartburn. Slippery elm, taken in the form of a tincture or syrup, soothes an irritated esophagus, as well as prevents future heartburn, by coating the esophagus, which creates a barrier against stomach acid.

Diarrhea

• Slippery elm has been used as a remedy for stomach ailments for centuries by herbalists throughout the United States. According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, the indigenous tree can be made into a tea to sooth the stomach and help relieve diarrhea. In addition to this, slippery elm provides excellent nutrition when other foods are not tolerated due to nausea or other stomach issues. Therefore, slippery elm may be effective in treating diarrhea in cases when dehydration may be a concern.