Focus
on Herbs: Slippery Elm
by Lynne
Latella
Native to North America, slippery elm grows up to
70 feet
tall. The name is derived from the sap of the tree, which is quite
slippery. It
has been used for hundreds of years by American Indians and the early
colonists
for its strengthening and healing properties. It was often turned into
pudding for
those with weak stomachs. During times of famine, early American
settlers ate
it as survival food. In fact, George Washington and his troops, by
eating
slippery elm gruel, were able to last through the bitter winter at Valley Forge.
The
medicinal value can be found in the dried, inner portion of the elm’s
bark. As nutritious
as oatmeal, it can be made into a sustaining cereal for infants and
invalids.
Its main function is to lubricate, soothe and relieve such ailments as
intestinal and throat irritation, sensitive and inflamed mucous
membranes and
skin problems. Effective as a diuretic and vaginal douche, it can be
used also
as an enema to benefit babies who suffer from inflamed bowel. Slippery
elm is
an important ingredient in cold and throat remedies, particularly in
cases of
flu, bronchitis and other respiratory infections and phlegm. It is
often found
in combination formulas with goldenseal and echinacea.
Known to
nourish the adrenal glands and expel mucous from the system, it is
excellent to
include in food during convalescence. As a poultice, it is effective in
treating burns, boils, abscesses, wounds and diaper rash. Other
instances in
which slippery elm may be helpful are in cases of:
• Broken
bones
• Colitis
•
Constipation
•
Diverticulitis
• Dysentery
• Heart
conditions
•
Hemorrhoids
• Hiatal
hernia
•
Indigestion
• Labor
pains
• Ulcers
• Vaginitis
• Warts
• Worms
Additionally,
slippery elm has also been used by veterinarians for domesticated and
farm
animals. As an example, a half-teaspoon of powder sprinkled on food is
a treatment
for diarrhea in cats.
The Coop
carries slippery elm in bulk, as well as in single and combination
capsules, tinctures
by special order, tea and throat lozenges.
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