Slippery Elm: Materia Medica
Société Apothecary
]( https://www.societeapothecary.com/s/search?q=elm ) Soft, mucilaginous, and soothing to inflamed tissues, Slippery Elm is a time-honored remedy in North American herbalism. Revered by Indigenous peoples and widely adopted in Western herbal medicine, it coats and protects the mucous membranes, calms irritation, and nourishes depleted systems. “Slippery Elm is the balm of the inner body—gentle yet strong, protective yet nourishing, it helps restore the integrity of the gut, lungs, and throat.” MATERIA MEDICA Latin Binomial: Ulmus rubra (syn. Ulmus fulva ) Common Name(s): Slippery Elm, Red Elm, Indian Elm TCM Name: Not traditionally used in TCM Ayurvedic Name: No direct counterpart Family: Ulmaceae Physical Description of the Plant: A medium-sized deciduous tree with rough bark, downy twigs, and oval, toothed leaves. The inner bark is light brown to reddish and has a slippery, mucilaginous texture when moistened. Habitat: Native to eastern and central North America; prefers moist, rich soils and wooded areas. Harvest and Collection: Inner bark is harvested in spring from mature trees; sustainably collected from pruned branches or fallen limbs to protect tree populations. Parts of the Plant Used: Inner bark (dried and powdered) Qualities: Mucilaginous, slightly sweet, bland Energetics: Cooling, moistening, soothing Dosha: Pacifies Vata and Pitta; may increase Kapha slightly due to moisture Chemical Constituents: Mucilage (polysaccharides) Tannins Starch Calcium, magnesium, and other trace minerals Flavonoids Actions: Demulcent Emollient Mucoprotective Nutritive Mild astringent Vulnerary (wound healing) Antitussive (soothes cough) Indications: Gastrointestinal inflammation: ulcers, gastritis, colitis Sore throat, laryngitis, dry cough Constipation or irritated bowels Acid reflux and heartburn Emaciation or convalescence Topical wounds, boils, and burns (as poultice) UTI irritation (adjunctive use) Diagnostic Picture: Ideal for dry, irritated, or inflamed tissues. Suited for individuals who are depleted, sensitive, or suffering from "raw" mucosal conditions. Brings nourishment and moisture where the body is parched or inflamed. Contraindications/Cautions: May interfere with absorption of medications or nutrients if taken too close together—space by 1–2 hours Sustainably harvested bark is essential—overharvesting has threatened populations in some areas Drug Interactions: Can delay absorption of oral medications or supplements—take at different times Dosage: Cold Infusion (best for mucilage): 1–2 tsp powdered bark in cool water; steep for several hours; drink 1–3x/day Warm Gruel: 1 tbsp powder in warm water or milk; stir well until thick; eat as needed for soothing effect Capsules: 400–500 mg; 1–2 capsules up to 3x/day (less effective than whole powder) Poultice: Mix powder with water; apply externally to wounds or boils Combinations: With