Slippery Elm Side Effects

The scientific name of slippery elm is ulmus rubra and some of the other common names by which it is referred to includes sweet elm, moose elm and Indian elm. This herb is widely known for its therapeutic uses and has been used for centuries by Native Americans. Slippery elm, as the name suggests, belongs to the elm family and the leaves, flowers and the inner bark are the parts that are used for their medicinal properties. While coarsely powdered inner bark is used for poultices and finely powdered bark is used to prepare tea, it is also available in the form of modern medicine such as capsules, tablets and lozenges. It has been used for since ages and continues to be used because of its distinctive medicinal features.

Slippery Elm Benefits

Slippery elm basically has soothing properties that helps in relieving several ailments. What in slippery elm gives the soothing effect? It contains a substance called mucilage, when mixed with water, this mucilage turns into a gel-like consistency. This substance soothes the irritation of the stomach and intestines and cures sore throat.

• It helps in healing the external wounds, boils, burns, psoriasis and other such skin conditions.
• It is useful in treating diarrhea, diverticulitis, constipation, gastroenteritis and other irritable bowel diseases.
• It relieves the pain and inflammation in the stomach, kidneys, intestines and the urinary tract.
• A mixture consisting of the inner bark and milk or water is found to be very nutritious and provides comfort in cases of heartburn and indigestion.
• Applying this herb in the form of paste or powder not only can be used as an external application for wounds or other skin problems but it also helps to keep the skin soft and healthy.
• Besides the healing properties, it is also highly nutritious and can be eaten in the form of porridge. It is a super food for infants and children.

Slippery Elm Side Effects

There are many herbs that have many side effects along with their benefits but, when it comes to slippery elm side effects, it doesn't really have any. All one needs to remember is to have it according to the recommended dosages and if that is administered correctly then this herbal medicine does not have any side effects as such. In fact many consider it to be safe for pregnant women and lactating mothers but please note that it should not be used or consumed without consulting with the doctor. The only significant slippery side effect that could be pointed out when it comes to this herb is that it might cause an allergic rash when used as an external application for the skin. Having said that it does not have any major side effects, people have had personal experiences that suggest that side effects include problems such as tingling or swelling in the mouth and throat, swelling of the face and hand, itching, difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest and itching. Another possible side effect is that it might slow down the absorption process of other drugs or medicines.

Slippery Elm Dosage

Drinking slippery elm tea 3-4 times a day is what is usually recommended to yield best results. Capsules can be taken 3 to 4 times everyday for around 4-8 weeks and the dosage of lozenges is given on the label. If it is to be used for external application, it needs to be mixed with boiling water or milk and applied when it cools off.

There hasn't been much research on the safety and efficacy of slippery elm and, therefore, it is important that one consults with an expert before deciding to use this herbal remedy. There are no significant side effects that one could point out but there could be some reactions with the interaction of other drugs. Taking the right dosage recommended by an expert is what is required to ensure that it is safe to use.