Quest Vitamins LTD,
8 Venture Way,
Aston Science Park,
Birmingham,
B7 4AP.

Tel: 0121 359 0056
Fax: 0121 359 0313
Email: info@questvitamins.co.uk
Registered in England No. 2530437

Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva)

DESCRIPTION

Found throughout North America, slippery elm contains high quantities of mucilage, which is a gelatinous material used to soothe inflamed tissue. This property of slippery elm makes it extremely useful in treating many external and internal disorders, which cause Inflammation.

HERBAL USES

A favourite of Native Americans, slippery elm bark was used to treat Sore Throat, Coughs, dryness of the lungs, Wounds, Skin Inflammations, and irritations of the digestive tract (1, 2). It was also prepared as a porridge to be given to weaned infants. Civil War heroes claimed slippery elm aided their recovery from wounds.

SUGGESTED INTAKES

For Coughs, use lozenges as needed.

For digestive disorders,
1) prepare honey-sweetened porridge and eat as desired
OR
2) take 500-1000mg of capsulized powder three times daily.

Part of the herb used: INNER BARK.

SUPPLEMENTAL USES

Soothing properties:
Little scientific evidence on slippery elm bark is available. Today, slippery elm bark is used mainly in Cough lozenges. Sometimes it is recommended for the following disorders: Irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative colitis), Gastritis, oesophageal reflux (Heartburn), and Haemorrhoids.

Skin conditions:
Slippery elm may be applied topically for Wounds, cuts, abrasions, and other surface irritations.

SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS

Aside from occasional allergic reactions, slippery elm is relatively non-toxic. Formal studies have never been conducted on its safety.

Safety in young children, nursing or pregnant women, and patients with severe liver kidney disease has not been determined.

Slippery elm bark can cause Dermatitis while the pollen is allergenic.

INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Regular use of slippery elm bark may affect the absorption of tetracycline derivatives, oral anti-cholinergics, phenothiazines, digoxin, isoniazid, phenytoin, nalidixic acid, sulfonamides, and warfarin.

Slippery elm bark may potentiate the antibiotic activity of Echinacea. To counter the effect, add milk or cream to tea.

Slippery elm bark may affect the urinary excretion of alkaline drugs, such as amphetamines and quinidine.

Use with caution in conjunction with CNS depressants or stimulants.

Sedatives, hypnotics, and beta-adrenergic blocking agents may inhibit the anti-inflammatory activity of the herb.

REFERENCES

1. Castleman M. The healing herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1991: 342-344.
2. Hyde, F.F. British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. British Herbal Medicine Assoc: West Yorks, England. 1983.