Where Can I Buy Slippery Elm Bark
Slippery elm barkstores
. Also, how much does slippery elm cost?
Slippery elm is available in various forms, such as capsules, powder, and lozenges. If you’re taking powdered bark, a typical dosage is about one tablespoon up to three times per day. You can mix it with tea or water. Adding too much slippery elm to the water may cause it to become too thick to ingest.
Secondly, what is slippery elm benefits and side effects? People take slippery elm for coughs, sore throat, colic, diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome , bladder and urinary tract infections, syphilis, herpes, and for expelling tapeworms.
Similarly, when should you take slippery elm?
Because it coats the digestive tract, it may slow down the absorption of other drugs or herbs. You should take slippery elm 2 hours before or after other herbs or medications you may be taking.
Does slippery elm relieve constipation?
Slippery elm is an herbal supplement used orally to treat conditions such as Colitis/diverticulitis, constipation, cough, cystitis, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, sore throat, ulcer prevention, and urinary tract infections.
Soothing A Cough And Sore Throat
Slippery elm contains mucilage, a sticky mixture of sugars that cant be broken down by the human digestive tract. The mucilage coats the throat, so its no surprise that slippery elm is found commercially in many brands of throat lozenges.
Slippery elm is believed to be an antitussive, meaning its great for coughs and for symptoms of other upper respiratory ailments like bronchitis or asthma. Again, there are no studies to support or refute these claims.
A study examining the barks use in people with laryngitis or throat inflammation and voice problems has also shown some potential soothing effects. More research is needed.
Slippery Elm Interesting Facts
Slippery elm trees, identified by their slippery inner bark, may live to be 200 years old. Sometimes called red elm, gray elm or soft elm, this tree grows best on moist, rich soils of lower slopes and flood plains, although it may also grow on dry hillsides with limestone soils.
Although SE trees are abundant and associated with many other hardwood trees, they are not important lumber trees instead they have been used mostly for medicinal purposes throughout history.
In the U.S., SE trees are uncommon in much of the South, but grow abundantly in the southern part of the lake states and in the corn belt of the Midwest. They can be found growing from Maine west to New York, extreme southern Quebec, southern Ontario, northern Michigan, central Minnesota and in certain other areas.
As described above, there are many medicinal uses for slippery elm. Some Native American tribes believed SE could make childbirth easier. It was also consumed as a tea and was used to treat sore throats. The Iroquois were known to scrape the bark of the slippery elm tree to treat infections, swollen glands and conditions affecting the eyes.
However health-related purposes were not the only use of SE. The bark supplied material for the sides of winter houses and roofs of the Meskwaki. The inner bark was used by many tribes by boiling the bark to make fiber bags, large storage baskets, ropes and cords, making slippery elm one of the most versatile trees on the planet.
Read Also: What Ingredients Are In Long Island Iced Tea
Risks And Side Effects
Does slippery elm have side effects? Though SE is usually well-tolerated, some supplements containing this herb may trigger side effects in some people, such as nausea, increased bowel movements, frequent urination, swollen glands, skin blemishes, flu-like symptoms and slight headaches.
Because it coats the digestive tract, it may slow down the absorption of other drugs or herbs. To prevent drug interactions, it may be best to take slippery elm two hours before or after other herbs or medications you may be taking.
SE should only be given to children under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner.
Herbal medicines can trigger allergic reactions, including skin rashes, among people who are sensitive to their effects. Therefore, use caution and check with your health care provider, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or using other medications.
Is it safe to take slippery elm every day? Like other herbs, its best to take breaks from using it periodically. Try taking it for several weeks, then taking several weeks off before starting again if necessary.
Possible Side Effects Of Slippery Elm
Because there isn’t much research, the safety of slippery elm hasn’t been established. Common side effects include:
- Allergy, usually in people who are allergic to elm pollen or peaches
Slippery elm may coat the digestive tract. Because of this, it may interfere with the absorption of certain drugs.
If you are taking other medications, take slippery elm at least two hours before or after your other drugs. When you take your regular medications, drink plenty of water unless otherwise indicated.
In folk medicine, the outer bark of the slippery elm tree is sometimes used to induce abortion. There is little evidence that this works. Still, people who are pregnant or intend to become pregnant should avoid slippery elm.
Also Check: How To Make Kava Tea
A Guide To Using Slippery Elm For Pets
Paleo Dog and other pet books and administrator of the award-winning website www.littlebigcat.com.
Some people may be wary of using herbs like slippery elm for pets. Others may be a little too enthusiastic, trusting all sorts of herbs for pets when many that are safe for humans are inappropriate for our four-legged friends. You see, many people think if its natural, its safe. But this isnt always true, especially when it comes to herbs. Its potentially dangerous to give herbs to pets, and cats in particular. Cats livers lack the enzymes that humans, and in many cases dogs, have for breaking down foreign substances. In some cases, they cant metabolize the herbal compounds, and in other cases, the breakdown process itself produces toxic byproducts.
Then theres the issue of dosage. Its common to extrapolate a pet-sized dose of herbs by using the pets weight compared to the standard 150-pound human. A large dog, however, has a comparatively slow metabolism that may be susceptible to overdosing, while a small dogs rapid heart rate and high energy level may make it difficult to get the desired effect at a small dose.
Safety Of Slippery Elm Bark
Slippery elm is approved for over-the-counter use as a demulcent for soothing sore throats and mucus membranes. However, there have been few clinical studies done to date to test the safety and efficacy of slippery elm bark.
While there isnt enough information to determine whether or not slippery elm bark is completely safe and nontoxic, there havent been any reports of toxicity or side effects yet. However, since slippery elm is a mucilage, it could potentially decrease how much medicine your body can absorb and decrease its effectiveness.
To be safe, take slippery elm bark at least one hour after taking another medication by mouth. As with all dietary supplements, consult your doctor before use.
Read Also: Caffeine In Gold Peak Tea
Irritation Of The Urinary Tract
Slippery elm is sometimes recommended to people who experience unexplained inflammation of the urinary tract, like those with interstitial cystitis . Slippery elm powder is thought to soothe the lining of the urinary tract. Therefore, it might help alleviate the painful irritating symptoms. Again, studies are needed to either support or refute these claims.
As a mild diuretic, it also helps increase the flow of urine and eliminate waste from the body.
Why Do People Take Slippery Elm
Slippery elm has not been well-studied. There’s some evidence that it may help with certain cold symptoms. One study found that sucking on slippery elm lozenges may help ease a sore throat.
Slippery elm contains mucilage. This is a sticky substance that can’t be digested. Mucilage seems to help improve bowel regularity. A small amount mixed in water to make a slurry is ingested for digestive problems. Slippery elm may help people with constipation due to irritable bowel syndrome , one small study showed. More research is needed. Some people also use slippery elm powder in water to soothe heartburn and mild stomach discomfort.
A small amount mixed in water to make a slurry is ingested for digestive problems.
Some people use slippery elm ointments to soothe skin ulcers and cold sores. There’s not enough research to know if they really help.
Slippery elm is an ingredient in an herbal cancer treatment called Essiac. There’s no evidence that it has any benefit, though, and it may actually decrease physical well-being.
Standard doses of slippery elm have not been set for any condition. Ingredients in supplements may vary widely. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose.
Recommended Reading: Different Types Of Long Island Iced Teas
Uses For Slippery Elm:
Due to its demulcent properties, slippery elm can be used for coughs, sore throat, and colic when added to lozenges or teas. The Food and Drug Administration recognizes slippery elm bark as an effective option for these symptoms.
Slippery elm preparations cause an increase in mucus secretion in the gastrointestinal tract that may be useful in the management of gastrointestinal disorders such as stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease , irritable bowl syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease, although supportive research evidence is lacking. Slippery elm may also promote the expulsion of tapeworms.
When used topically, slippery elm bark can be used to help heal burns and inflammatory skin disorders such as psoriasis, minor wounds, and gout.
Slippery Elm And Marshmallow Root: 2 Gut
Updated ·
I may receive a commission if you purchase through links in this post. I am not a doctor please consult your practitioner before changing your supplement or healthcare regimen.
What do you say to herbs that are slippery and milky and soothing to the gut? Theyre easy to add to smoothies, hot cereals, breads, porridges, puddings, teas and coffees. And they taste good. They taste healthy but they taste good-healthy.
Multitudinous testimonies boast these two herbs gastrointestinal powers: total relief of symptoms for those suffering from various conditions ranging from interstitial cystitis to acid reflux
I am not a healthcare practitioner, nor do I pretend to be one. Please consult your doctor before beginning any new healthcare regimen. This post contains affiliate links.
Read Also: Where Can I Buy Hyssop
Upper Airway Inflammatory Conditions
Upper airway inflammatory conditions can include conditions such as upper respiratory infections.
In research published in the Journal of Investigational Biochemistry, scientists stated that companies have advertised slippery elm supplements as treatments for upper airway inflammatory conditions.
However, most evidence of its effectiveness in treating these types of conditions has been anecdotal.
The study called for more scientific evidence to back up the claims made by these companies.
Instead, a person wishing to treat an upper respiratory infection can take medication to ease symptoms. These may include:
- pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen
Other Acid Reflux Treatment Options
A typical treatment regimen may include lifestyle changes, traditional medications, and alternative therapies. Your first line of treatment may involve avoiding triggering foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting an adequate amount of exercise.
Some acid reflux medications, such as antacids, are available over the counter. You shouldnt take antacids for more than two weeks. If your symptoms persist, speak with your doctor.
Certain medications can treat your acid reflux over an extended period. This includes H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. These are available over the counter or by prescription only depending on the strength of the medication.
If you have a severe case, surgery to strengthen the esophageal sphincter may be necessary.
Read Also: Gold Peak Green Tea Caffeine
Soothing Slippery Elm Tea Recipe
- 1tspslippery elm powder
- 1/2jarcold water
- Add 1 teaspoon of slippery elm powder to a glass jar.
- Fill the jar halfway with cold water.
- Seal the jar and shake thoroughly.
- Fill up the rest of the jar with hot water.
- Seal lid and shake thoroughly for the second time.
- Let the mixture sit for no more than 2 minutes.
How To Use Slippery Elm To Treat Acid Reflux
Slippery elm is available in various forms, such as capsules, powder, and lozenges.
If youre taking powdered bark, a typical dosage is about one tablespoon up to three times per day. You can mix it with tea or water.
Adding too much slippery elm to the water may cause it to become too thick to ingest. You can add sugar and honey to the drink to make it more palatable.
If you prefer capsules, its common to take 400-to 500-milligram capsules up to three times per day. Its generally safe to take daily capsules for up to eight weeks.
Be sure to read the directions on any slippery elm product that you wish to use. If youre ever unsure of how much slippery elm to take, speak with your doctor. They can help you determine the correct dosage.
You May Like: Is Gold Peak Green Tea Good For You
Using Slippery Elm For Pets
Give a half capsule , opened up and the contents mixed with cold water, when using slippery elm for pets. Slippery elm powder will absorb many times its own weight in water, so be sure to add enough to make a gruel. This gruel can be given before meals by syringe or eyedropper, or added to baby food, canned food or a homemade diet. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste and is usually well-tolerated by cats and dogs when mixed with food.
Creating a Syrup
Author Anitra Frazier gives the following recipe for Slippery Elm Bark syrup in her book, The New Natural Cat, which applies equally well to our canine companions when adjusted for weight: Into a small saucepan place 1/2 cup cold water and 3/4 teaspoon powdered slippery elm bark. Whip with a fork to break up clumps. Bring to simmer on low heat, stirring constantly. Simmer 1 or 2 minutes or until slightly thickened to a syrup or molasses consistency. Cool and refrigerate for up to 7 days. Commercially made syrups are also available.
Timing
For long-term use, it may be best to give slippery elm apart from meals, supplements and medications by at least an hour, and again at bedtime. Since cats and small dogs are ideally fed 3 to 4 times a day, that often makes a reasonable schedule for slippery elm, as well. A separate dose at bedtime will allow it to work, undisturbed, to enhance its benefits.
Checking Quality
For Gastrointestinal Problems
For Mouth and Throat Problems
For Cystitis, Asthma or other Inflammatory Problems
Cough And Sore Throat
This herbal beverage with its mucilaginous constituents acts as a demulcent, reducing minor inflammation and pain. It helps protect the tissues by forming a film over the mucous membrane lining the throat, thereby aids in alleviating a sore throat. Moreover, it can be used as an expectorant since it provides relief from persistent dry cough associated with acute bronchitis.
Read Also: Does Green Tea Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Before Taking This Medicine
Before using slippery elm, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use slippery elm if you have certain medical conditions.
It is not known whether slippery elm will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether slippery elm passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.
What You Can Do Now
Although research on slippery elm is limited, its possible to take the bark without having any side effects. If you decide to try this natural remedy, read the product labels thoroughly and watch for unusual ingredients. The dosage varies depending on the form of slippery elm. It may interfere with other medications. You should let your doctor know that youre using slippery elm to treat your acid reflux. They can ensure that the bark wont interfere with any other medications that you may be taking.
Recommended Reading: Gold Peak Coffee Review
What To Look For
Dietary supplements are not closely regulated in the United States. They do not need to undergo rigorous testing or research. Because of this, quality can vary between brands.
Always purchase supplements from well-known brands. Look for products that have been quality tested by a third party. U.S. Pharmacopeia or ConsumerLab are examples of organizations that do this kind of testing.
Unfortunately, manufacturers of herbal supplements rarely submit products for third-party testing. This means you may have to use your best judgement. Try not to be swayed by health claims that may or may not be true.
Benefits Of Slippery Elm For Pets
Herbalists attribute many wonderful healing properties to slippery elm: demulcent , emollient , nutritive , tonic and astringent . It also possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Internally, the mucilage softly coats irritated, inflamed or damaged tissues, forming a protective barrier externally, it can be used as a poultice to draw out infection and help wounds heal.
Slippery elm is one of the herbs used in the original formulation of Essiac, also called Ojibwa Tea, an herbal mixture widely promoted as a cancer-fighter.
In the gastrointestinal tract, slippery elm acts directly. Think of it as a sort of natural Pepto-Bismol. . When it comes to slippery elm for pets, the plants mucilage content coats, soothes and lubricates the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract. That makes it an excellent treatment for ulcers, gastritis, colitis and other inflammatory bowel problems. Its high in fiber, which helps normalize intestinal action. This means it can be used to relieve both diarrheaandconstipation. It may also help alleviate nausea and vomiting in pets suffering from non-GI illnesses, such as kidney disease. A syrup made from slippery elm bark is helpful in healing mouth ulcers from all causes .
Slippery elm is said to relieve inflammation of virtually any mucous membrane and is used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions of the lungs , kidneys, bladder , throat and joints .
Recommended Reading: Does Dunkin Donuts Sell Boba Tea