Slippery Elm: The Gut-Healing Food That Functional Docs Love—But Most People Have Never Heard Of

Slippery elm, an herbal remedy from the inner bark of the elm tree, has been used in North America for centuries. Formally known as Ulmus rubra (or fulva), its name stems from the fact that the bark consists of mucilage, which, when mixed with water, creates a slick, mucus-y-like substance.

Today, slippery elm is used to treat a variety of ailments from healing digestive distress, to soothing stress and anxiety, to treating symptoms of psoriasis. It is not only a potent source of antioxidants but also contains a host of minerals, such as magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, as well as vitamin C and a family of B vitamins, to name a few. This herb packs a powerful medicinal punch! Here's what you need to know about slippery elm's benefits, side effects, how to buy it, and its safety record.

Slippery elm comes in many forms, and can be found online, or at your local health food store or natural market. It is typically sold as a powder, capsule, tea, or tincture. The way you use depends on your treatment needs, but the most common way to consume slippery elm is either as a supplement or tea.

Slippery elm has been shown to relieve symptoms of digestive issues across the board, from heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), to irritable bowel diseases, such as Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, IBS, and diverticulitis.

Slippery elm can also be used for upper respiratory issues like cough, sore throat, laryngitis, and tonsillitis4. The demulcent effect works the same way it does in the digestive tract: The mucilage coats the throat, which calms irritation while antioxidants fight inflammation. If you are struggling with a sore throat, or needing to soothe other symptoms of the common cold, there are teas and lozenges on the market that can help.

Slippery elm is sometimes used as an alternative treatment for urinary tract and bladder infections. While more evidence is needed to support this claim, the demulcent effect of the mucilage, when taken orally through tea or tincture, could calm the irritation and inflammation brought on by bladder infection and UTIs.

Given that our mental health is largely tied to our digestive system, it is no surprise that slippery elm's gut-healing effects can help to reduce anxiety and relieve stress. Additionally, slippery elm contains plant phenolic compounds, which studies have shown support both physical and mental health5, and can even naturally protect against stress6.

One study found that when participants consumed slippery elm water with a real food, nutrient-dense dietary regimen, the severity of their psoriasis symptoms improved7. There currently is no cure for psoriasis, and therefore it is a skin disorder that must be managed. While the cause of psoriasis is still unknown8, research concludes that a disruption in immune function plays a role9. Since elm bark contains immune-protective properties10, this has positive implications for treatment. It seems as if drinking slippery elm tea or water could be beneficial; however, more research is needed to confirm the correlation.

Slippery elm has become a part of a popular herbal remedy for breast cancer patients. Essiac11, which combines slippery elm with a blend of burdock root, Indian rhubarb, and sheep sorrel, is often administered to women with breast cancer to help improve their symptoms. One study reports numerous women felt the beneficial effects of Essiac12, which research shows contains antioxidant and anti-cancer activity11.

While there are no reported serious side effects, more research is needed to explore the efficacy and safety of slippery elm, given that there is still unsubstantiated evidence to support its use. Before adding this herb to your diet or natural remedy regimen, there are a couple other points to consider.

Since slippery elm gels coat the lining of the digestive tract when ingested, the mucilage could prevent the absorption of other medications. Furthermore, slippery elm has been said to potentially trigger pregnancy loss and complications, so it is not recommended to consume while pregnant. If you have any health concerns, speak to a health care professional to help determine if slippery elm is right for you.

If you are trying slippery elm to nourish your digestive system, drink it in tea form, or try this comforting gut-healing pumpkin porridge. The slippery elm together with the gelatin makes this a very digestive-friendly dish!

Serves 4

If you want to get creative in the kitchen, you can also make your own lozenge! This recipe contains slippery elm in powder form, as well as Manuka honey, which comes with its own sore-throat-soothing powers.tni