Weeds & Seeds Swap

As you can see from the picture to the left, this is not  a plant that you’ll see in a little herb garden, or container garden.

Slippery Elm is the inner bark from an elm tree, that also goes by the name Moose Elm, Indian Elm and Red Elm. The tree is deciduous, and grows in various parts of the US and Canada.

This is among my favorite plant remedies. It is very soothing to an irritated intestinal tract, whether it be caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Colitis, diarrhea, constipation, or any condition similar, this is what I reach for. I use a tablespoon of a bulk powdered form, and shake it in a tumbler with water, and drink. It is good to drink right away, as this is a mucilaginous herb and will swell in the water….but it is this very property that soothes and coats the intestinal system. Sometimes I take it in capsule form with lots of water. I love the soothing benefits of this medicinal herb.

It is also a great balancer, helping whether you are dealing with constipation or diarrhea.
Many writings on the herb will tell you that it was eaten as a gruel by George Washington and his troops when they suffered through the bitter winter in Valley Forge. It is highly nutritious food source. It was also used as a survival food by American settlers.

Here are some sources for Slippery Elm:

Slippery Elm Capsules
Slippery Elm Bulk Powder
Stomach Comfort
Intestinal Soothe and Build
Everybody’s Fiber

Slippery Elm is also soothing to an irritated throat:
Zinc Lozenges

Thank you for reading, and happy gardening!