Alternative Health & Herb Remedies with Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is a herbal remedy derived from the bark of elm trees. It is dried and ground into a powder that can be made into teas, put into capsules, added to extracts or molded into suppositories. Slippery elm powder has many medicinal uses.

Digestion

• Slippery elm becomes thick and swollen when water is added, giving it a gelatinous texture. In this form it is ideal for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease or upset stomachs. The gel coats the stomach lining and soothes inflamed tissues associated with such afflictions. Slippery elm gel can be made by adding 10 grains of powder to 1 oz. of water. Make an enema to relieve constipation by mixing ¼ oz. slippery elm powder with 1 oz. sugar, ½ pint warm milk and 1 oz. olive oil.

Sore Throat and Cough

• Slippery elm makes a soothing sore throat and cough aid. Make your own cough syrup by mixing together two parts each of slippery elm, valerian, comfrey root and licorice root; one part each wild cherry bark, ginger root and cinnamon bark; four parts fennel seeds; and 1/8th part orange peel. Use 2 oz. of herbs to 1 qt. water. Simmer on low heat until the water is reduced by half. Strain the liquid and mix with honey to taste (up to 1 cup).

Skin Injuries

• Slippery elm salve is good for cuts, burns, ulcers and inflamed areas. Mix powdered elm with hot water to form a paste and use clean cotton swabs to apply it to affected areas. For old wounds, an antiseptic mix of equal parts wormwood, powdered elm and water with a slight amount of charcoal can be used. Relieve achy joints with a salve of equal parts powdered elm, hot vinegar and bran.