🌲 Slippery Elm Bark

Overview

Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) inner bark powder is a traditional North American botanical used by Indigenous peoples for centuries and later adopted by early American settlers. When mixed with water, the bark powder becomes highly mucilaginous (gel-like), coating and soothing mucous membranes throughout the digestive tract and throat. Contains polysaccharides, tannins, and other compounds that create a protective layer. Used primarily for digestive comfort, throat soothing, and inflammatory bowel support. IMPORTANT: Slippery elm is slow-growing and at-risk in some regions—always choose sustainably harvested sources.

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Key nutrition highlights

• Mucilage polysaccharides: primary bioactive components (approximately 40-50% of bark) that create soothing gel when hydrated.
• Tannins: astringent compounds with protective effects on mucous membranes.
• Phenolic compounds: antioxidants including catechins and flavonoids.
• Fiber content: soluble fiber from polysaccharides supports gut health and regularity.
• Calcium: notable calcium content in ground bark powder.
• Magnesium and potassium: trace minerals present in whole bark powder.

Note: Slippery elm is used primarily for its mucilaginous coating properties rather than macronutrient content. Typical serving is 1-2 tablespoons powder in liquid.

Common benefits people look for

• Digestive tract soothing and comfort
• Throat coating and cough relief
• Inflammatory bowel support (IBS, IBD)
• GERD and heartburn relief
• Prebiotic effects (feeds beneficial gut bacteria)
• Gentle detoxification support

These are general wellness themes in nutrition research and traditional use—not disease treatment claims.

Common uses

• Slippery elm gruel: mix 1-2 tablespoons powder with small amount cold water to form paste, then add warm water/milk to make porridge-like mixture. Take 1-3 times daily.
• Throat lozenges: slippery elm lozenges for sore throat, cough, vocal strain.
• Capsules: encapsulated powder (typically 400-500mg) for convenience—take with plenty of water.
• Tea blends: combined with marshmallow root, licorice, chamomile for digestive support.
• Smoothie addition: add 1 tablespoon powder to smoothies for gut-soothing effects.
• Poultices: external application of paste for wound care, skin irritation (traditional use).

IMPORTANT: Take slippery elm at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after medications/supplements—may slow absorption due to coating properties.