Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra [Image]. [2014]. Retrieved from: http://www.dickcontino.com/slippery-elm-inner-bark.htm

Common name: 
Slippery Elm 
(Kuhn & Winston, 2008, p. 415). 

Latin binomial:
Ulmus rubra
(Kuhn & Winston, 2008, p. 415).  
  

Family: 
Ulmaceae 
(Kuhn & Winston, 2008, p. 415).  

Parts used:
Inner bark 
(Kuhn & Winston, 2008, p. 415). 

Active constituents:

• Mucilage
• Tannins
• Minerals 

(Kuhn & Winston, 2008, p. 415).

Actions:

• Traditional use of slippery elm was as follows
• Antitussive
• Demulcent
• Emollient
• Nutritive
• Poultice for eyes, boils, carbuncles, sores and burns
• Internally the bark mucilage is used for irritation of the mucous membranes, diarrhoea and constipation. 
• Current use is quite similar, it is used to protect, sooth and heal mucous membranes
• Local use relives pain and decreases inflammation of abscesses, varicose ulcers, anal fissures, first-degree burns, styes and ingrown toenails
• Soothing demulcent for throat irritation and dry coughs 

(Kuhn & Winston, 2008, p. 415). 

  

Indications:

• Slippery elm bark is a soothing nutritive demulcent which is perfectly suited for soothing irritated mucous membranes lining the digestive tract
• Gastritis
• Gastric or duodenal ulcers
• Enteritis
• Colitis
• Diarrhoea
• Boils
• Abscesses 

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 227).

Dosage:

• Decoction: 1 part powdered bark to 8 parts water, mix the powder in a little water to begin to ensure it mixes then bring to the boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes- drink half a cup three times a day
• Poultice: mix the powdered bark with enough boiling water to make a thick paste (Hoffman, 1983, p. 227).

Combinations: 
For digestive problems it is best combined with marshmallow 
(Hoffman, 2002, p. 233). 

References:

Hoffman, D. (1983) The holistic herbal. Element books: Dorset.

Kuhn, M. & Winston, D. (2008) Herbal Therapy Supplements; A scientific and traditional approach. Wolters Kluwer Health: Philedelphia.