Slippery Elm

🌿 Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus rubra)

Also known as: Red Elm • Moose Elm • Indian Elm
Family: Ulmaceae (Elm Family)
Origin: United States
Parts Used: Inner Bark
Primary Use: Digestive Support • Mucosal Repair • Soothing Demulcent

✨ Description

Slippery Elm Bark is one of nature’s most soothing and protective herbs — a true gift from the North American forest. Derived from the inner bark of the red elm tree (Ulmus rubra), this soft, powdery herb becomes mucilaginous (gel-like) when mixed with water, coating and calming irritated tissues from the throat to the digestive tract.

Traditionally used by Indigenous tribes and later adopted into early American medicine, Slippery Elm is cherished as a “natural Pepto-Bismol” — a gentle herbal remedy for upset stomach, heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers, and intestinal inflammation.
It’s one of my personal favorites for soothing the gut, restoring moisture, and supporting the entire mucous membrane system — from the throat to the womb.

🍵 Internal Uses & Benefits

• Digestive Support: Calms acid reflux, ulcers, and gastritis by coating the stomach lining.
• Bowel Health: Relieves irritation from IBS, colitis, or chronic constipation.
• Sore Throat & Cough: Acts as a demulcent to soothe the throat and lungs.
• Women’s Health: Hydrates internal tissues and eases vaginal dryness when taken consistently with plenty of water.
• Urinary & Reproductive Balance: Soothes irritation of the urinary tract and supports post-menstrual healing.

How to Use:

• Tea / Drink: Mix 1 tsp of powdered bark into 8 oz (250 ml) of hot water. Stir until thick and drink immediately.
• Capsules: Take with a full glass of water. Always hydrate well to activate its mucilaginous properties.
• Smoothies: Add 1 tsp to herbal blends for gut support.
• Tincture: Used for respiratory and throat support.

Pairs Well With:

• Marshmallow Root or Licorice Root for enhanced mucosal repair.
• Chamomile or Peppermint for stomach relief and digestion.
• Sarsaparilla or Burdock Root for gentle detox while soothing the gut.

💧 External Uses

• Poultices: Mix the powdered bark with warm water to create a paste for soothing burns, wounds, boils, and skin inflammation.
• Vaginal Steams or Washes: When used externally, it hydrates and comforts delicate tissues — a gentle ally for post-menstrual or menopausal dryness.

🐾 For Pets

Safe for dogs and cats in small doses. Commonly used for digestive upsets, diarrhea, or sore throats. Mix ¼ tsp powder into pet food with water to form a soft gel. Always ensure adequate hydration.

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Element: Water
Chakra Alignment: Throat & Sacral

Slippery Elm carries the energy of comfort, healing, and communication.
It restores moisture where there has been dryness — not only in the body, but in spirit.
It helps one speak gently, soothe conflict, and rebuild harmony in relationships and within oneself.

Often used in protection spells and healing rituals, Slippery Elm is believed to “coat the tongue with grace,” guarding the speaker from harm and helping them express truth with compassion.

Affirmation:

“I speak and move with ease. My body, mind, and spirit flow in gentle harmony.”

🌾 Harvest & Sourcing

Our Slippery Elm Bark is wildcrafted in the United States from mature red elm trees. The inner bark is carefully hand-harvested and sun-dried to preserve its full mucilage content — ensuring every spoonful delivers maximum soothing relief and nourishment.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

• Taste: Mildly sweet, earthy, smooth, and soft.
• Energetic Profile: Cooling, moistening, nurturing.

⚠️ Warnings

• Must be taken with at least 250 ml (8 oz) of water to prevent choking or blockage.
• Avoid taking at the same time as medications or supplements, as it may slow absorption.
• Not recommended for those with severe bowel obstruction.
• Safe for short- and long-term use when taken properly.

🌻 A Note from the Herbalist

Slippery Elm has a tenderness unlike any other herb. It protects, soothes, and restores — whether you’re struggling with digestive discomfort, vaginal dryness, or emotional overwhelm.
It teaches us to slow down, nourish, and allow healing to move through every layer of the body.

It’s a staple in my apothecary — a “hug from the inside out.”

“Let softness be your strength.”