Slippery elm is a type of tree native to the northeastern region of North America. Some people claim that it can help treat a number of conditions, including inflammation, sore throat, and acid reflux.
Slippery elm is also known as Indian elm, red elm, or gray elm. The tree gets its name from the slippery feeling of its inner bark.
Despite its growing popularity, however, there is limited scientific evidence to support the reported benefits of slippery elm.
This article will look at why people have used slippery elm traditionally and why many people continue to use it today. It will also explain the different forms of slippery elm and the potential risks associated with it.
According to a
Native Americans used slippery elm both topically and internally to help treat conditions such as:
Many people in various communities continue to use slippery elm for these conditions. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
There are several potential uses of slippery elm that are well documented by companies and in the media.
However, not all the potential uses are well studied.
Instead, there are only anecdotal accounts of the benefits of slippery elm as a treatment for certain health conditions.
Blood pressure
There is no evidence to say that slippery elm helps to lower blood pressure.
Instead, a person should follow the recommendations of the
- keeping track of blood pressure at home and at checkups
- taking medications as prescribed
- maintaining a moderate weight
Learn how to lower blood pressure safely and naturally here.
IBS symptoms
There is limited evidence that slippery elm can help ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as diarrhea and constipation.
In a
Instead, a person looking to ease symptoms of IBS can make dietary changes approved by the
- eating more fiber
- avoiding gluten
- following a low FODMAP diet
Learn more about how to treat IBS safely here.
Weight loss
There is limited evidence that slippery elm may help with weight control or loss.
A
Researchers found that slippery elm and similar compounds may help control blood sugar levels. This could help a person maintain a moderate weight.
However, the researchers stated that the effects might not be as powerful in humans.
Instead, a person wishing to maintain a moderate weight can make some dietary and behavioral changes, including:
- eating more fiber
- eating fewer refined carbs and sugars
- tracking diet and exercise
Learn more science-backed tips on how to lose weight safely here.
Wound care
There are no current studies looking at the use of slippery elm for wound care specifically.
Instead, a person caring for an open wound should take the following steps:
- Stop the bleeding.
- Clean the wound.
- Apply antibiotic ointment to the wound.
- Dress the wound.
Learn more about how to safely care for an open wound here.
Inflammation
There is some evidence that slippery elm may help with inflammation in the airways.
In a
However, researchers stressed the importance of further studies, particularly to see how effective slippery elm may be in helping with airway inflammation.
Instead, here are some ways a person looking to reduce or prevent inflammation:
- follow an anti-inflammatory diet
- take certain medications, such as:
Learn about other herbal remedies for inflammation here.
Upper airway inflammatory conditions
Upper airway inflammatory conditions can include conditions such as upper respiratory infections.
In research published in the Journal of Investigational Biochemistry, scientists stated that companies have advertised slippery elm supplements as treatments for upper airway inflammatory conditions.
However, most evidence of its effectiveness in treating these types of conditions has been anecdotal.
The study called for more scientific evidence to back up the claims made by these companies.
Instead, a person wishing to treat an upper respiratory infection can take medication to ease symptoms. These may include:
- pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen
- decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Learn about home remedies for upper respiratory infections here.
Acid reflux
Only anecdotal evidence exists to support using slippery elm for acid reflux or a sore throat.
According to a
It is possible that the substance may coat the esophagus and provide some relief from pain.
Instead, the
- maintaining a moderate weight
- raising the head during sleep
- avoiding smoking
Learn about which foods can help a person with acid reflux here.
Sore throat
When consumed as a tea or tincture, slippery elm may help with a sore throat. This is due to the potential coating effect of
However, no studies have examined the exact effects of slippery elm on a sore throat.
According to the
- sucking on ice chips
- gargling salt water
- drinking plenty of liquids, including warm drinks
Slippery elm can come in various forms.
Some possible forms include:
- lozenges
- powders
- tablets
- capsules
- tea
Slippery elm comes in several forms and dose sizes. In general, the dosage is based on weight.
A person should read the packet of whichever slippery elm product they are using. They should follow the recommended dosage.
However, a person can also talk to their doctor about a safe and effective dose for them.
Slippery elm is likely safe if taken as directed.
However, the lack of studies on slippery elm means that a person should be careful when taking it for the first time.
A person should talk to their doctor before taking slippery elm supplements or products, particularly if they:
- are pregnant
- are breastfeeding
- are giving the supplement to a child
- have underlying health conditions
- take other supplements or medication
Some people believe slippery elm can treat several conditions, including acid reflux and symptoms of IBS.
However, most of the evidence for its effectiveness is anecdotal.
Some scientific studies point to promises when it comes to treating inflammation and symptoms of IBS.
However, scientists have called for additional research to understand the correct dosage, effectiveness, and safety of slippery elm.