Herbs & Botanicals

Product Description

Botanical Name: Ulmus rubra

Plant Family: Ulmaceae

Botanical Description:
Ulmus rubra, commonly known as slippery elm, is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It typically grows between 15 to 20 meters in height, featuring a straight trunk with rough, furrowed bark and a spreading crown of branches. Slippery elm leaves are alternate, ovate to elliptic in shape, and doubly serrate along the margins. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and paler green underneath, turning yellow in the fall before dropping. Slippery elm produces small, inconspicuous flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves emerge. The inner bark of slippery elm is particularly mucilaginous when mixed with water, giving rise to its common name.

Introduction:
Slippery elm was valued for centuries by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties and versatile applications. Traditionally, various parts of the slippery elm tree, particularly the inner bark, have been used. Slippery elm is highly regarded for its reported soothing and demulcent properties. Today, slippery elm continues to be used in herbal medicine and in food supplements for its therapeutic benefits and gentle nature.

Preparations:
Infusion: Prepare a slippery elm infusion by boiling powdered slippery elm bark in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink the decoction as a tea.
Lozenges: Prepare slippery elm lozenges by mixing powdered slippery elm bark with honey or glycerin to form a paste. Roll the paste into small balls and allow them to dry before consuming.
Poultice: Prepare a slippery elm poultice by mixing powdered slippery elm bark with water to form a thick paste. Apply the poultice to the skin and cover it with a clean cloth or bandage. Leave the poultice on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
Capsules: Slippery elm powder is available in capsule form for convenience. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner for appropriate dosing.