What is Slippery Elm Bark?

History

• Native Americans took slippery elm bark orally to treat coughs, stomach problems and diarrhea. They applied the herb to the skin as a remedy for burns and wounds and created poultices to remove the discoloration from bruised and blackened eyes. Surgeons during the American Revolution treated gunshot wounds with slippery elm bark.

Features

• Slippery elm bark produces a thick mucilage or gel when it is mixed with water. The mucilage soothes the mouth, throat and stomach. The herb also contains plant chemicals that help relieve the symptoms of inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease. Slippery elm lessens the pain of external wounds and burns and aids in healing.

Considerations

• According to folklore, slippery elm bark is capable of causing a miscarriage. Although there is no evidence supporting this claim, WebMD recommends that pregnant and breast-feeding women avoid using the herb. Some people also suffer from skin irritation or allergic reactions when slippery elm bark is applied to the skin.