Uses of Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is an herb that is indigenous to North America. Its scientific name is ulmus rubra, and it is also known commonly as red elm, moose elm, grey elm or Indian elm. There are many purported uses for slippery elm, but many of these claims remain unevaluated and unsubstantiated. General consensus suggests that slippery elm is useful in settling various digestive upsets, but its curative properties beyond this remain untested.
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What is it
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Slippery elm contains a number of carbohydrates, phytosterols, fatty acids and other components. Among other things, it includes beta-sitosterol, dolichol, citrostandienol, tannins, cholesterol, calcium oxalate, palmitic and oleic fatty acids, and carbohydrates including mucilage. Mucilage, a long sugar chain that becomes slippery when combined with water, is said to be what gives slippery elm powder its function as a digestive aid.
History
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Slippery elm is derived from the inside bark of the slippery elm tree. Historically, it has been used to treat coughs, fevers, inflammation, cancer and gastrointestinal problems. Some early American settlers may have used slippery elm as food during times of famine, and it is reported that George Washington and his army ate gruel made from slippery elm to survive in Valley Forge.
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Uses
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Mucilage in slippery elm is thought to be responsible for the herb's soothing effect on the digestive track. Polysaccharides in the mucilage that are not water-soluble form a sticky material, which allegedly absorbs toxins and acts as a form of laxative. The fatty acids in the slippery elm are alleged to be responsible in helping fight tumors. Other stated uses include the treatment of coughs, sore throats or bronchitis, fevers or inflammation, ulcers or diarrhea, and/or skin abscesses and ulcers. As of July 2009, no studies on humans or animals have demonstrated the veracity of any of these claims.
Dosage
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Slippery elm bark as a medication generally comes in capsule form, with each capsule containing 360 mg. Two capsules can be taken with a meal. Slippery elm is also available in a powder form, and one to two heaping teaspoons can be taken daily with a glass of water.
Side Effects
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As of July 2009, there are no known drug interactions or adverse side effects associated with slippery elm. It is recommended by Sloan Kettering, with a limited endorsement, as a treatment for minor intestinal problems and coughs, but Sloan Kettering cautions that it should not be used as a treatment for more serious illnesses including cancer and/or bronchitis due to the lack of proven effectiveness.
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