Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood and there is limited clinical evidence, both historical medical texts and modern herbalists highly recommend the use of slippery elm bark.
Jessica Washington discovered slippery elm bark when she was a patient experiencing symptoms of a Helicobacter pylori infection.
“I’ve always leaned towards holistic approaches, but when it came to stomach issues, I was new to it,” she shared with The Epoch Times. “I delved into learning about slippery elm. Using herbs and plants for healing can be a gentle way to support the body without encountering side effects.”
Washington found that slippery elm helped alleviate her pain and aided in her healing process. She felt that it was beneficial for her overall well-being.
By coating the gastrointestinal tract, demulcents like slippery elm can prevent irritation from irritants as they pass through, allowing individuals to eat without exacerbating symptoms.
“The extensive historical medical literature supporting the use of slippery elm as a demulcent for various internal conditions with irritated and inflamed mucous membranes and tissues,” explained the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia in their article on slippery elm.
They also highlighted that slippery elm is considered one of the best mucilaginous agents available.
Origins of Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a deciduous tree native to North America, primarily found in the Midwest and eastern regions, as well as in Canada. Its bark, especially the white inner bark, has been used for therapeutic purposes since early settlers’ time and has consistently been highly regarded.
Various forms of slippery elm were readily available in drug stores as early as 1863. The bark can be chewed, brewed into a tea, ground into a powder for a gelatinous drink, or encapsulated.
Historical texts like “The Physio-Medical Dispensatory” by William Cook in 1869 and “The Dispensatory of the United States of America” from 1833 praised slippery elm for its demulcent properties and recommended it for various digestive and urinary conditions.
How Slippery Elm Works
Slippery elm may alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms through several potential mechanisms.
By creating a protective layer on irritated mucosa, slippery elm offers a shield in the GI tract. It may also interact with lymphoid tissue to modulate the immune system and provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects within the mucosa itself.
According to medical herbalist Richard Whelan, observing slippery elm’s healing properties on skin wounds can provide insight into its internal workings. The herb forms a soothing bandage as it traverses the digestive system.
Recent studies suggest that slippery elm interacts with human cells, with its plant polysaccharides potentially engaging with local and systemic immune tissues alongside physical effects.
Contemporary Studies
- Significant improvement in upper and lower GI symptoms, as well as mood, energy, and sleep.
- Enhanced gut mucosa healing in nearly 60 percent of participants.
- Improved intestinal permeability, enabling participants to reintroduce foods previously intolerable.
- Reduction in the use of proton-pump inhibitors among participants.
- Increase in healthy gut bacteria.
While slippery elm shows potential benefits for chronic digestive issues, further research is needed to fully understand its individual advantages.
Concerns of Scarcity
Despite its potential, herbalists may be cautious about recommending slippery elm due to its endangered status caused by diseases affecting elm trees, as noted by herbalist Rosalee de la ForĂŞt.
She suggests exploring alternatives like marshmallow, licorice root, or aloe vera, which offer similar demulcent properties without the risk of overharvesting slippery elm.
“While there are other beneficial agents available that do not face the same scarcity issues as slippery elm, I have yet to find a substitute that can provide such quick and effective relief for internal wounds,” remarked Mr. Whelan.
Functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner Jessica Washington also recommends slippery elm, especially for clients dealing with stomach issues. She advises individuals on prescription medications to consult their healthcare provider before incorporating slippery elm or other herbs into their regimen.
“I am a strong advocate for slippery elm,” she affirmed. “Aloe vera is another go-to for stomach symptoms. It can help soothe and cool the GI tract, providing relief for ulcers, diarrhea, and other digestive discomforts.”
