Systems Affected: Breasts, Digestive System, Intestinal System, Mucus Membranes, Rectum, Respiratory System, Skeletal System, SKin, Small Intestines, Stomach, Structural System, Urinary System and Vagina.

Conditions: Breasts (Swelling and tenderness), Burns and Scalds, Celiac Disease, Chemotherapy (reducing side effects), Cholera, Colitis, Constipation (children), Convalescence, Crohn’s Disease, Cystitis, Debility, Diaper Rash, Diarrhea, DIverticulitis, Dusyentry, Enteritis, Failure to Thrive, Gasteritis, Hemorrhoids, Hiatal Hernia, Ileocecal Valve, Indigestion, Inflammatory Bowel Disorders, Leprosy, Mastitis, Sore Throat, Tickle in Throat, Tonsillitis, Ulercations (external), Vaginal Dryness, Wasting and Wounds and Sores.

Slippery elm is used internally for irritation of the stomach and intestines, diarrhea (especially in children), and as a mild, nourishing food for weak and debilitated persons. In capsule form, take 2-4 capsules, three to six times daily with plenty of water. It is better, however, to use it in bulk form, especially for throat problems. Mix 1-2 teaspoons bulk powder with hot water or juice (mixes best using a blender). Sweeten to taste and drink (might be slightly thick depending on how much powder is used). To give to children, combine with applesauce or juice into a porridge consistency, sweeten, and eat like cereal (combine with suma, ginseng, almond meal, and elderberries for strengthening weak persons). Porridge can be flavored with cinnamon or other spices to improve taste. It can also be made into tea using 1/2 teaspoon per cup of boiling water, steep for 1 hour, then sweeten with honey or raw sugar. It can be mixed with hot milk (1/2 teaspoon per cup) and molasses (to taste) for a soothing “mock chocolate” drink. Sip tea or suck on powder in small, frequent doses for relief of sore throat, tickling or irritation of the throat, cough, heartburn, and ulcers. (combines well with licorice for these conditions). The tea can be used in an enema or rectal injection for hemorrhoids or bowel inflammation.
Externally, slippery elm makes an excellent poultice for abscesses, wounds, congestion, eruptions, swollen glands, injuries, burns, and swollen, inflamed surfaces. Combine with powdered plantain, comfrey, white oak bark, golden seal, lobelia, myrrh, or barberry, depending on the problem. Moisten with aloe vera or water to make a thick paste. Cover swelling, injury, or other damaged area with paste. Cover paste with plastic wrap to protect it and keep it moist. The poultice can be taped in place and worn to bed.

Warnings: Completely mild and safe remedy for internal use. Not recommended for external ulcers or purulent sores.