How to Take Slippery Elm for Health

The slippery elm tree is the source of an herb with health benefits. Native American and ancient Chinese medicine are replete with uses for slippery elm. Herb users claim slippery elm coats the digestive tract, softens the stool, breaks up mucous and phlegm, increases urination and is nutritious. Adhering to a few simple steps will ensure slippery elm use is safe and appropriate.

Things You'll Need

• Slippery elm tablets or capsules
• Slippery elm powder
• Water
• Wooden spoon
• Pot

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Appreciate its raw form. The herb resides in the gummy interior bark of the slippery elm tree. It becomes a thick and slippery substance when combined with water. The texture has a gentle, soothing effect.

• 2

  Use for approved indications. The United States Food and Drug Administration recognizes slippery elm for treatment of sore throat and mild respiratory problems such as cough.

• 3

  Consider other internal uses. Herbalists recommend using slippery elm for many digestive problems including acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, diverticulitis and diarrhea.

• 4

  Investigate external uses. Herbalists advise using slippery elm powder to form a paste to soothe hemorrhoids, wounds, burns, scalds and boils.

• 5

  Stick to the recommended dose. Slippery elm is available as 250 or 500 mg tablets and capsules. Take 750 to 1500 mg daily in divided doses. Try to space them eight hours apart.

• 6

  Obtain fine powder for brews. Use a wooden spoon to mix one part slippery elm powder to eight parts of water. Boil in a pot and then simmer for 15 minutes. Drink four ounces three times a day.

• 7

  Select coarse powder for dressings. Use a wooden spoon to mix the powder with a small quantity of boiling water until thick and sticky.