You guessed it, Slippery Elm comes from Elm trees that grow in the Eastern United States. The inside portion of the bark, the cambium, is what is used.
The mucilage, starch and sugars in it make it “slippery.”
It will soothe inflamed or damaged tissue, which in botanical terminology, makes it a demulcent. The tannins and trace minerals of Slippery Elm make it soothing and nutritious.
Slippery Elm tea or gruel is primarily used to soothe irritated or inflamed mucus membranes of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract, such as for sore throats, bronchitis, pneumonia, ulcers, colitis, and diarrhea.
It can be used as a nutritious food source and for tonification during acute and recovery stages of healing. Finally, Slippery Elm can also be used as a poultice for cuts, abrasions and other skin conditions where soothing and support with nutritious minerals is needed.
Slippery Elm Tea
Place 1 heaping Tablespoon of powered slippery elm in a pot.
Slowly pour 2 cups boiling water over it, stirring constantly.
Simmer on low heat 5-15 minutes.
Drink 1 cup 3 – 4 times a day.
If desired, you can add a little juice to thin and flavor it.
Slippery Elm Gruel
- Place 1 1/2 teaspoons of powdered Slippery Elm in a bowl.
- Mix with 1/4 cup cold water to make a paste.
- Stirring steadily, pour 1 1/2 to 2 cups boiling water onto the paste.
- Continue stirring for 2 minutes with a whip or spoon.
To this basic gruel, you can add:
- honey
- raisins
- lemon rind
- cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg or other spices.
Juice such as apple or grape can be substituted for water.
Take 1 to 2 cups one to three times per day.
The basic gruel can also be used as a base for other grains in a hot cereal.
Being creative, you may add:
- beaten eggs
- sunflower seeds
- almonds
- yogurt
- whatever you like!
