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Slippery Elm
A Bark With No Bite
By LynnWhittaker
Bow Wow U
Slippery Elm is a deciduous tree that can be found in the Eastern portion of the United States and Canada. The outer bark is thick and pinkish-brown in color. The leaves are lance shaped and the surface of the leaves feel like sand paper that is sticky to the touch. The inner bark is the most commonly used part, which is soft and stringy. The simplest form to use Slippery Elm is the powder, which can be purchased in capsules or loose.
Why is this an important herb you may ask? Herbalists have been using this bark for years and attribute many healing properties such as being soothing, forming mucilage, protection for skin, promoting healthy functions in the body, as well as being an astringent. Slippery Elm can be used internally as well as externally. It is also one of the herbs found in the original formulation of the famous Essiac tea, a well-known herbal tea given to those with cancer.
In the gastrointestinal tract, Slippery Elm goes right to work. It is a natural Pepto-Bismol, as it soothes, coats, and lubricates the mucus membranes in the digestive tract. It is an excellent treatment for colitis, and other inflammatory bowel problems. It is high in fiber, and helps normalize intestinal actions. Oddly enough it can be used to relieve both diarrhea and constipation. It can also help alleviate nausea and vomiting. Because of its ability to relieve inflammation, it has been used in the treatment of bronchitis, asthma, arthritis, and cystitis (in the bladder). Slippery Elm also contains carbohydrates, protein, fat, ascorbic acid, calcium and other trace minerals that can provide benefits to those dogs who are recovering from illness and is likely to stay down when other foods are not tolerated.
Used externally, a paste can be made mixing a small amount of water to the powdered Slippery Elm and formed into a poultice for hot spots, insect bites, ulcerations or skin abrasions. Native Americans used Slippery Elm to stop bleeding. It forms a natural bond and bandage over wounds and can be removed with water. This might be a bit tricky applying to a dog if they are able to reach the wound.
Slippery Elm is somewhat high in magnesium and ash, and may be contraindicated in dogs that have an infection with elevated urinary pH levels, where struvite crystals may form. Because it may interfere with the absorption of certain minerals and pharmaceuticals, it may be best to give several hours before or after other medications to assure effectiveness.
Slippery Elm is inexpensive to use and would make a great addition to your herbal tool kit! And as always, it is best to consult with your veterinary professional before administering any herb or supplement.
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