Slippery Elm (ulmos rubra in tagalog)

(Ulmus fulva) Part used: Inner (not outer) bark. Properties: Demulcent, emollient, nutritive, astringent. What it affects: Generally effects the whole body.

Preparation and amount: Infusion (powder): Slowly pour 1 pint of boiling water over 1 oz. powdered bark, stirring constantly. Simmer 5-15 min. Take 6 oz. 3-4 times daily. Decoction (whole bark): Simmer 5-15 min. Take 3 oz. 3-4 times daily. Tincture: Take 15-30 drops 3-4 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 - 1 tsp. 3-4 times daily. Gruel: Mix 1 tsp. powder with sufficient cold water to make a thin and very smooth paste. Stirring steadily, pour 1 pint of boiling water onto the paste. Flavor with honey and lemon rind. Take 1/2 - 1 pint (warm) 1-3 times daily. Syrup: 1 Tbsp. as needed. Powder: Take 5-10 #0 capsules (30-60 grains) 3-4 times daily.

Purposes: It is the inner white bark of the slippery elm tree that should be kept on hand. (The outer dark bark is also sold, but is useless).

Internally, slippery elm is used for bladder inflammation, bronchitis, colitis, constipation, ovarian cramps, cough, cystitis, diarrhea, diverticulitis, dysentery, eczema, flu, gas, hemorrhoids, hoarseness, lung congestion, stomach problems, tonsillitis, ulcers, ulcerative colitis, gastritis, leucorrhea, rheumatoid and gouty afflictions. It is beneficial for Crohn’s diseases. It is an excellent cleanser and can be used in a douche or enema.

• Slippery elm makes a nourishing gruel for children, for the elderly with weak stomachs, for those with ulcers, and those who are recovering from diseases. It can be made into a gruel by gradually adding a small amount of water and mixing until the proper consistency is obtained. This can be sweetened with a little honey. It is an excellent food whenever there is difficulty holding and digesting food.

Externally, slippery elm is used for burns, gangrenous wounds, hemorrhoids, tumors, open sores, and wounds. It is used to treat painful rheumatic and gouty areas.

 
Note: Slippery elm is excellent binder. A small amount can be added to other herbs with a little water, and then rolled into small pills. By adding a little maple syrup, it can be used to make suppositories, boluses, and to hold unleavened bread together. If used as a douche or enema, it must be diluted with water, so it will not plug the apparatus (since it is a mucilaginous herb).