Slippery Elm Tea

Slippery elm, native to certain regions of North America, is highly valued for its medicinal uses. It is otherwise known as red elm, due to the reddish-brown heart wood. The tree can grow to a maximum height of around 50 feet and have dense branches that grow downwards. The leaves change color during fall and the flowers that develop in clusters lack stalks. The bark of the tree is highly ridged with a distinct smell. It is said that the Native Americans used the inner bark of this tree for culinary as well as medicinal purposes. The inner bark of this tree is ground to powder and is mixed with water to prepare gruel, which is a form of porridge. Slippery elm's inner bark is dried and powdered and is sold in different forms like lozenges, capsules, extract, tea, etc.

How to Make Slippery Elm Tea

So, it is the dried and powdered inner bark of the slippery elm tree that is used for preparing tea. It is said that the mucilage in the inner bark is responsible for the medicinal properties of the tree. Slippery elm bark is used in many different ways, as salves for wounds (not to be applied on open wounds), as poultices, as lozenges, tincture, capsules, etc. Slippery elm bark benefits include its use in making rope, furniture, fence, etc. Slippery elm tea is used as a popular herbal remedy for a wide range of health problems. In order to prepare this tea, take two tablespoons of powdered bark add two cup of boiling water over it. Let it steep for around five minutes. After five minutes, you can strain and consume this herbal tea. Usually, this infusion is consumed two to three times a day.

Slippery elm tea can also be prepared as a decoction, in which, you have to cook the bark powder in water (1:8 ratio) for at least an hour, on low heat. The end product will be mucilaginous in nature and has to be taken as per the prescription of the herbalist. You may also go for slippery elm tea bags, for preparing this tea. Even though, this herbal tea is said to be safe, it is always better to use it as per the instructions of a qualified herbalist.

Slippery Elm Tea Benefits

As mentioned above, there are numerous slippery elm benefits. Slippery elm bark tea is most commonly used for relief from certain bowel problems, like, ulcers, gastritis, indigestion, acidity, constipation, esophagitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, etc. It is also said to be highly effective in combating acidity in the stomach. It is said that the mucilaginous substance in the slippery elm bark soothes and heals the inflamed mucous membranes of the digestive tract and protects them from further damage. Slippery elm tea is also used as a herbal remedy for cough, sore throat, bronchitis, etc. Some people use this herbal tea for skin care and it is suggested that this preparation may be effective in treating psoriasis. It is also used in treating certain kidney problems, hemorrhoids, etc.

In short, slippery elm tea is said to be an effective herbal remedy for various health problems. Even though, this herbal tea is claimed to be safe, it is always better to use it under the supervision of a qualified herbal practitioner. While slippery elm is said to be safe for pregnant and nursing women and babies, there is no evidence to prove the same. So, it is better for them to avoid use of this herb.