Slippery Elm — FarmPal
The inner bark produces a soothing mucilage that coats and heals irritated mucous membranes. Safe for children and elderly.
Scientific Name
Ulmus rubra
Growing Zones
Zones 3-9
Medicinal Properties
Demulcent
Emollient
Nutritive
Anti-inflammatory
Antitussive
Parts Used
Inner bark
Traditional Uses
- •Sore throat relief
- •Digestive inflammation (IBS, Crohn's)
- •Cough suppression
- •Wound poultice
- •Nutritive gruel for convalescents
- •Diaper rash
Preparations
Throat Lozenges
Mix slippery elm powder with honey to form thick paste. Add pinch of cinnamon. Roll into small balls and dry.
Dosage: Dissolve 1-2 lozenges in mouth as needed for sore throat
Gruel
Mix 1-2 tbsp powder in warm water or milk. Stir until smooth. Add honey and cinnamon.
Dosage: 1-3 cups daily for digestive healing
Poultice
Mix powder with warm water to form paste. Apply to wounds, burns, or skin irritation.
Dosage: Apply externally as needed, cover with cloth
Harvesting Guide
Timing: Purchase sustainably harvested bark powder.
Method: Do not harvest from wild trees species is declining.
Drying: Available as pre-dried powder from herbal suppliers.
⚠️ Cautions
- •May slow absorption of medications take 2 hours apart
- •Purchase from sustainable sources tree is threatened
- •Never harvest bark from wild trees
- •Safe for pregnancy, children, and elderly
Storage
Powder 2-3 years in airtight container. Loses potency if exposed to moisture.