Respiratory: Sore throat, cough

Gastrointestinal: Stomach issues, diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis. May help protect against stomach and duodenal ulcers, colitis, diverticulitis, stomach acid, reflux, gastritis, Crohn's, colitis

Genitourinary: Bladder and UTI

Musculoskeletal: rheumatism, gout

Skin: Wound and skin irritation, herpes, burns, cold sores (boils), abscesses, ulcers, toothache

Infectious Disease: Syphilis eruptions

                                                          *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, dermatitis (skin irritation), allergic reaction (elm pollen allergen)

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Slippery elm may decrease the absorption of other medications. It is best to take it at a different time from other medications. Note: Warning NOT for pregnant women - can cause miscarriage

FORMS:  lozenges, powder, capsule, tincture

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

Nature's Way Slippery Elm Bark Capsules - NSF certified (order through Fullscript link here)

DOSAGE

As directed on the product label. Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.

• 1 to 3 tsp of slippery elm powder in 240 mL of water, up to 3 times a day.

Note: Slippery elm medicines are actually from the bark of the tree, but since Dutch elm disease has become so devastating to the elm trees, it is preferable that, rather than harvesting it yourself, you buy a reputable online product as most of those producers are committed to reforesting

For further information, see herbal references in Epocrates

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.