Herb Class/Action: Demulcent, Expectorant, Nutritive, Emollient
Flavor: Mild, Slightly Sweet, Earthy
Energetics: Cooling, Moistening
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Slippery elm bark is a deeply soothing and nourishing herb known for its high mucilage content, which gives it a slippery, gel-like texture when mixed with water. This makes it highly effective for coating and soothing irritated tissues, particularly in the digestive and respiratory tracts. It has long been used to support conditions such as acid reflux, sore throats, dry coughs, and inflammatory bowel concerns. In addition to its soothing properties, slippery elm is also highly nutritive, making it a valuable herb for individuals recovering from illness or dealing with malnourishment. It has been used traditionally as a survival food, with its powdered bark forming a gentle, nourishing porridge. Slippery elm is often taken as a tea, lozenge, or gruel, offering gentle, restorative support for sensitive or inflamed tissues. |
Uses:
- Soothes the digestive tract, helpful for acid reflux, ulcers, and IBS
- Supports respiratory health by easing dry coughs and sore throats
- Provides nourishment and sustenance during recovery from illness
- Helps ease inflammation in the urinary and reproductive systems
Safety Considerations:
- Generally safe for most people
- Can slow the absorption of medications if taken at the same time
- Sustainability concerns—ensure bark is ethically harvested to protect wild elm populations
Traditional Applications:
- Used by Indigenous peoples of North America for digestive and respiratory relief
- Historically made into gruels and poultices for internal and external healing
- Commonly consumed as a tea, lozenge, or porridge for soothing nourishment
You can find it in our Lung Cleanser Tea and Digest + De-bloat Tea