Some of the fastest growing herbal remedies among natural health enthusiasts have been used for centuries by native populations across the globe. For example, slippery elm is a tree that grows across the Eastern Midwestern portion of the United States, ranging from North Dakota to Maine. It was coveted for its medicinal properties by Native Americans who used it topically and internally, while also using it to build their canoes and baskets. Today, slippery elm supplements and slippery elm tea are popular choices to support natural digestive and respiratory health. Read on to discover 3 potential slippery elm benefits to your health!
What is Slippery Elm?
Slippery elm supplements come from the bark of the slippery elm tree, also called a red elm tree, that can grow up to 50 feet tall. These trees are often topped by open leaves, which grow in a crown-like formation. The inner bark of the slippery elm contains mucilage. This mucilage becomes a slippery gel when mixed with water, thus the name slippery elm, and is the source of its many potential health benefits. Although coveted for their medicinal value, slippery elm trees are generally not used for ornamental purposes and as such are not as commonly sourced as oak or maple trees.
3 Reasons To Try Slippery Elm
01. Provides Seasonal Support
The mucilage of the slippery elm has been shown to coat the throat and mouth, bringing temporary comfort in the midst of seasonal health challenges. The ability of slippery elm to ease throat and tonsil pain may be significant, according to one study, especially when mixed with other helpful herbs such as echinacea, ginger, and oregano. To make for ease of use, slippery elm is often available in cough drop form, offering quick relief to see you through the cold and flu season.
02. Supports Healthy Digestion
Just like the mucilage of the slippery elm coats the throat and tonsils, it also coats the stomach and intestines, supporting gastrointestinal health. Slippery elm has traditionally been administered to treat diarrhea and acid reflux issues, but research is being conducted as to its efficacy with chronic digestive ailments. Some of the gastrointestinal benefits of the slippery elm tree are from its antioxidant effects, which combine with the mucilage to provide temporary relief from gut-related problems.
03. Provides External Skin and Wound Care
For centuries, slippery elm has been used to support healthy-looking skin as a salve on infections, wounds, and skin blemishes. The combination of antioxidants and mucilage may assist in wound closure as well as keep microbial invaders at bay. These same antioxidant properties have shown slippery elm to be effective in the treatment of burns and psoriasis.
Other Potential Slippery Elm Benefits
In addition to promoting healthy respiratory and digestive systems, slippery elm has also been recommended by some practitioners as a natural treatment for stress and anxiety. A study from the New York Chiropractic College showed that when combined with other herbs and digestive enzymes, slippery elm may also assist with weight loss.
Check Out These Slippery Elm Products
If you’re ready to give slippery elm a try, take a look at Slippery Elm veggie capsules from Oregon’s Wild Harvest. This formula may support healthy mucous membranes in the stomach and esophagus, support digestion, and may provide comfort when swallowing.
If you’re looking for natural throat care on the go, Thayer’s Slippery Elm Lozenges may help provide soothing support in a delicious cherry formula.
For natural gut support, Mucosa by BioMatrix capsules contain a blend of beneficial herbs designed to benefit your digestive tissue.
Have you experienced slippery elm benefits? Share your experiences and questions in the comments section below.
