Slippery Elm
The inner bark that saved lives during famines. Its thick mucilage coats and protects inflamed gut tissue while you do the deeper detox work.
Quick Facts
Also Called
Ulmus rubra, Red Elm, Indian Elm
Tradition
Native American, American Herbalism
Primary Use
Gut healing, inflammation, protective coating
Form
Powder, lozenges, capsules, tea
What It Is
Slippery elm is the inner bark of the American elm tree (Ulmus rubra), native to eastern North America. When mixed with water, it produces a thick, slippery mucilage, hence the name.
This mucilage coats inflamed tissue like a bandage, protecting it while it heals. It's been used for centuries for sore throats, coughs, and digestive inflammation. During detox, it protects gut tissue that's under stress from toxin release.
How It Works
- →Mucilage coating: Forms a protective layer over inflamed or irritated gut tissue, shielding it from further damage
- →Stimulates mucus: Triggers the gut to produce its own protective mucus layer
- →Prebiotic: The mucilage feeds beneficial gut bacteria, supporting microbiome recovery
- →Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation through direct contact and by protecting tissue from irritants
Traditional Use
Native American: Multiple tribes used slippery elm for digestive issues, wounds, sore throat, and as survival food. They taught it to European settlers.
Revolutionary War:George Washington's troops reportedly survived on slippery elm porridge at Valley Forge during food shortages.
Modern herbalism: One of the few herbs the FDA previously recognized as safe and effective for soothing irritated throat tissue.
Dosing Protocol
Powder (Traditional)
1-2 tablespoons powder mixed with warm water to form paste, then add more water. Take 2-3x daily between meals.
Capsules
800-1600mg, 2-3x daily with water. Less mucilage action than powder mixed directly.
Timing
Take away from medications, the mucilage may slow their absorption. Safe for long-term use.
Contraindications
- • Medications, take 2+ hours apart; mucilage may slow absorption
- • Pregnancy, traditionally used but limited modern data; consult practitioner
- • Very few other contraindications, this is a remarkably safe herb
- • Sustainability concern, overharvesting is an issue; buy from responsible sources
Best Products
Thorne GI Relief
Slippery elm combined with DGL, aloe, marshmallow, comprehensive gut support
View in shop →NOW Foods Slippery Elm Powder
Pure bark powder, mix with water for traditional preparation
View in shop →Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat Tea
Slippery elm tea, easier to drink, good for daily use
View in shop →