The slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) is part of the indigenous elm tree family in North America. It has been utilized throughout the ages in traditional medicines and is believed to possess beneficial health effects. It may ease throat pain, heal wounds, and help ease symptoms of digestive disorders. However, the scientific evidence to back these claims is not available.
Only the inner part of the bark from the slippery elm can be employed to reap the health benefits for health benefits. There are compounds within the bark that boost mucus production in the human body.
Mucilage is a component of the slippery elm plant. It's a fiber that creates an emulsion-like substance when added to water. Mucilage is believed to be the reason for many health benefits associated with slippery elm.
The research on the beneficial effects of slippery elm is not extensive. The majority of studies done are outdated and insignificant.
This article will cover the use of slippery elm, potential adverse reactions, dosage, precautions, and details about the best way to utilize it.
Dietary supplements aren't controlled like drugs within the United States. This means that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't check their safety or effectiveness prior to a product's marketing. If possible, select supplements that have been evaluated by a trusted third party like USP, Consumer Labs, or NSF.
Even if supplements are tested by third parties however, this doesn't mean they're suitable for everyone or efficient generally. So, it's essential to speak with your doctor regarding any supplements you intend to take, and also inquire for possible interactions with other medications or supplements.
Supplement Facts
- active ingredient(s): Slippery bark and mucilage of the elm's interior.
- Alternate name(s): Indian elm, moose elm, olmo Americano, Orme, Orme gras, Orme rouge, Orme roux, red elm, sweet elm, Ulmus fulva, Ulmus rubra
- Legal standing: Legal and sold over the over the counter
- Suggested dose: No universal dose recommendations for slippery elm
- Safety concerns: Nausea and skin irritation
Uses of Slippery Elm
Supplements should be tailored to your needs and evaluated by a healthcare professional, such as a pharmacist, registered dietitian, or healthcare professional. Supplements are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent illness.
It is possible that slippery elm can be helpful for treating some health issues; however, more research is necessary.
In traditional treatment, slippery elm is believed to treat a variety of health issues in the mouth when applied to the skin.
The possible ways to use slippery elm could include:
- Skin conditions
- Sore throat
- Constipation
- Stomach ulcers
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
Here are some examples of what studies have discovered about using slippery elm to treat specific health issues.
Sore Throat
Because it is a natural demulcent (a substance that eases irritation or inflammation), it is believed to ease a sore throat by covering its lining and the esophagus, providing an extra layer of protection against irritation.
Some say that slippery elm helps ease sore throats (anecdotal evidence); however, further research is required to confirm that it does.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
The advocates of slippery elm say that it will ease some aspects of symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which can include both Crohn's and ulcerative colitis. Disease.
It has been suggested that slippery elm creates a temporary barrier to protect the intestines. However, evidence to back this assertion is a bit ambiguous.
Certain studies have examined the possibility of slippery elm having anti-inflammatory properties in inflammatory bowel disease. However, most studies were conducted in a laboratory (in vitro), so researchers could not determine if the same effect could occur in the human body. Many studies also used slippery elm when combined with other plants, making it impossible to determine whether slippery elm on its own would cause a similar result.
Skin Conditions
The mucilage found in slippery elm is applied to dry skin or to treat wounds by topically applying it.
When applied to the skin, the mucilage of slippery elm is believed to grow and develop into a gooey material. This is believed to ease dry or inflamed skin, which could be beneficial for treating minor wounds on the face.
However, there haven't been enough human studies on the benefits of slippery elm for treating wounds or skin conditions. Always consult your doctor before applying a slippery elm or any other treatment for skin conditions.
What Are the Side Effects of Slippery Elm?
The Slippery Elm plant is believed to be a safe and effective supplement to consider, but there are still negative consequences and dangers to be aware of.
A few side effects have been recorded for slippery elm, but it is possible that they could be. Be careful when using slippery elm the first time, as you won't be able to determine if there are any adverse consequences.
A reaction to an allergen could happen if slippery elm were applied on the skin. The application of slippery elm directly to your skin can likely irritate you. To prevent an allergic reaction or other serious side effects, speak with your doctor about the safe use of slippery elm.
Precautions
It's recommended to be cautious when using supplements, including slippery elm.
Because the research available is highly restricted, there isn't enough evidence to support the dangers of using slippery elm. It is recommended that you apply slippery elm according to the label on the product or the directions given to you by your supplier.
Women who are expecting or nursing should avoid the use of slippery elm. A few studies have suggested that it may cause miscarriage.
Be sure to be cautious when applying slippery elm on your skin, as allergic reactions and skin irritations can occur.
Can Kids Use Slippery Elm?
Although some Slippery Elm products have been marketed specifically for children, there is not enough research to determine whether or not Slippery Elm is safe for children. Parents should be wary of giving Slippery Elm to their children unless a doctor has advised them to do so.
Dosage: How Much Slippery Elm Should I Take?
There aren't any standard guidelines on the use and dosage of the slippery elm. The dosage of slippery elm varies according to the research studies conducted with the supplements.
Always consult your physician before using a supplement to confirm that the dosage and supplements are suitable for your specific requirements.
In general, don't consume more slippery elm than is listed on the product's label. Taking too much slippery elm could increase the chance of adverse negative effects. Consult your doctor regarding the right amount for you.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Slippery Elm?
It isn't believed to be poisonous. According to research, slippery elm causes minimal to no adverse consequences. However, it is possible to consume too much slippery elm, which could make adverse consequences more likely.
Follow the instructions on the supplement's label or those given to you by your doctor. If you're unsure what dosage is safe to consume, ask your physician to suggest a dosage.
Interactions
Slippery elm could affect the absorption and effects of certain medicines you may be taking. It is suggested that you avoid taking Slippery Elm with any oral medication.
The mucilage found in slippery elm may reduce the effectiveness and absorption of certain drugs if taken at an incorrect time.
If you are taking Slippery Elm in conjunction with other medicines, the body might not be able to utilize the drug as it was intended. To avoid any interactions, take slippery elm at least 1 hour after taking your medication.
There is no evidence of connections between Slippery Elm and any other food items or supplements.
It is crucial to take the time to read the list of ingredients and the nutrition facts panel of the supplement to determine what ingredients are included and the amount of each ingredient. Be aware and read the label of any supplement with your doctor to discuss possible interactions with food, other supplements, and medications.
How to Store Slippery Elm
Properly storing your supplements is essential. Supplements made of slippery elm must be kept in a dry, excellent space away from direct sunlight. They should also be stored in an area controlled temperature that will never get too cold or hot. Most of the time, slippery elm extracts can be kept outside the refrigerator. However, you must check the label to ensure.
All medications and supplements must be stored in a safe place so that pets and children cannot access them. Throw away any expired slippery elm supplements.
Similar Supplements
There are many supplements available that can work similarly to slippery elm. These include:
- Honey: Raw honey is a well-known remedy for colds and sore throats. Similar to slippery elm, honey is believed to ease sore throats. Honey may also possess antimicrobial properties.
- Curcumin: It is a component of turmeric spice. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can benefit people suffering from IBD. In a study of a limited size, patients suffering from mild to moderate ulcerative colitis (UC) received high-dose curcumin in combination with mesalamine, an approved medication for UC, for a month. Patients who took curcumin experienced more substantial improvement in the severity of their UC disease activity and remission-induction than patients who were given a placebo.
- Collagen: Collagen is a natural protein produced by your body. If consumed in supplement form, it may help treat dry skin. Both topical and oral collagen have been proven to increase skin hydration, elasticity, and moisture.
In most instances you should take only the one or two supplements at a time to treat the specific health situation. Your physician can help in selecting the most effective supplements for your needs.
Sources of Slippery Elm and What to Look For
There are various things to consider when picking the best slippery elm supplement. It isn't often present in food and is generally employed in supplements.
Food Sources of Slippery Elm
Because it's a tree, it's not found in food items. However, it's feasible to chew on the bark of the slippery elm plant. The bark is believed to be slippery when chewed, likely due to the mucus. Many people opt to take the bark in supplement form.
Slippery Elm Supplements
Supplements for slippery elm are usually made from tree bark. Elm is available in a variety of forms, such as lozenges, tinctures, powders, tea bags, loose-leaf teas, and capsules. They are available at health stores, a few pharmacies, and online.
Be aware that nutritional supplements aren't completely regulated by the United States and are not required to undergo thorough testing or study. To get the highest-quality supplements, search for ones that have been evaluated by an outside agency such as USP and Consumer Lab.
Herbal supplement manufacturers rarely offer their products for third-party testing. So, you'll need to exercise your judgment when buying supplements. Don't be influenced by health claims that could be false.
Summary
The bark on the inside of the slippery tree might benefit some people's health. However, this is not supported by scientific proof. Further studies on humans are required to establish that slippery elm is beneficial to anyone suffering from any illness.
People who use slippery elm, which is generally believed to be safe, have observed a few side effects. However, certain people must take extra precautions when using slippery Elm. Women who are pregnant should not take the herb due to security concerns.
If you're considering using slippery elm, speak with your doctor before deciding if it's appropriate.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can slippery elm aid constipation?
While slippery elm has been used in traditional medicine to treat constipation, there is no conclusive evidence for its advantages.
However, it could be due to the mucilage found within slippery elm. Mucilage is a soft fiber that may function similarly to other fibers suggested to relieve constipation.
Further research is required to determine if slippery elm may help relieve constipation.
Do you think slippery elm is safe to use during pregnancy?
There isn't enough data to be able to say for sure that it is safe to take slippery elm for pregnant women to consume.
In reality there are some theories that slippery elm could result in an miscarriage.1 This is why it is advised that women who are pregnant stay clear of slippery elm.
Are slippery elms diuretics?
In traditional medical practice, slippery elm is frequently employed as a moderate diuretic (water pill) to aid in urination. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this.If you need diuretics, speak to your physician regarding a more effective alternative to slippery elm.