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| Botanical name |
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| Actions |
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The inner bark of the slippery elm tree has been used as a herbal remedy for centuries. Native Americans traditionally used slippery elm in healing salves and poultices for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation. On contact with water, slippery elm powder becomes mucilaginous (slimey, gel-like) in texture which accounts for the majority of its medicinal properties. It has demulcent (soothing) actions on all mucous membranes, including those of the digestive tract, urinary and respiratory tract and also soothes the skin on contact. It also has astringent effects, tightening the surfaces on which it contacts, providing an effective barrier to bacterial infection and alleviating diarrhoea. Slippery elm is also rich in nutrients and can be used as a gruel for infants, invalids and patients with intestinal inflammation. |
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| Conditions commonly used for |
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- Inflammation and ulcerations of the gastrointestinal tract, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, gastritis, diarrhoea, diverticulitis, enteritis, constipation (large amounts with water)
- Convalescence, as a nutritious food
- Dry, hacking coughs
- Skin disorders (used as a topical poultice or salve)- burns, wounds, ulcers, rashes, boils, abrasions, varicose ulcers
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| Common dosage range |
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Internal use - 1 to 2 teaspoons of slippery elm powder mixed into one glass of water or juice, taken immediately up to 4 times per day.
External use - Mix powder to a paste with boiling water for poultices. |
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| Cautions, Contraindications and Side Effects |
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Slippery elm is generally regarded as safe and well tolerated. No known side effects or health hazards have been reported for slippery elm. It is a safe and effective child's remedy. |
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| Links & Other Information |
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It is not within the scope of the YourHealth website to provide comprehensive information on documented or potential herb-drug interactions. Please seek the advice of your healthcare practitioner.
Contact YourHealth for referenced material regarding this herb, any conditions or therapies mentioned.
A Medical Practitioner specialising in Integrative Medicine, a qualified Nutritionist or Naturopath will be well trained in the use of nutrients, including their proper dosage, contraindications and potential drug interactions. |
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