BREATHING & LUNGS

Slippery elm

Ulmus rubra

also known as Red elm, Indian elm

Moderate (traditional + soothing)

Inner bark from a North American elm tree, used by Indigenous peoples for centuries as a soothing food, wound dressing, and digestive remedy. The bark contains so much mucilage that mixed with water it becomes a slippery gel — still one of the gentlest options for an irritated gut or throat.

Coats and soothes irritated tissues along the throat, esophagus, stomach, and intestines
Eases heartburn, indigestion, and the discomfort of inflammatory bowel conditions
Eases sore throat and dry, irritated cough
Topical paste traditionally used for minor wounds, burns, and skin irritation
Historically used as a nourishing food during illness and recovery
One of the gentlest soothing herbs available — well tolerated by most people including children
Listed on the United Plant Savers At Risk list — buy cultivated or sustainably wildcrafted to support tree populations affected by Dutch elm disease

Active in Mucilage, Tannins, Phytosterols.

May reduce absorption of medications taken at the same time — separate doses by at least an hour

May lower blood sugar slightly — caution with diabetes medication

Generally very safe; mild stomach upset possible at very high doses

Limited safety data on internal use during pregnancy at high medicinal doses — culinary amounts are considered safe

Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro

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