Slippery elm is a tree native to North America. Its bark is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, sore throat, cough, and skin ulcers. A formula containing slippery elm improved bowel habits and symptoms in patients with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.

Slippery elm is one of the components in Essiac, an herbal formula used as an alternative cancer treatment.

Slippery Elm

C$9.99

Indian Elm

Red elm

Gray elm
To treat coughs and bronchitis
The mucilage content in slippery elm is thought to relieve coughs and throat irritation, but human data are lacking.

To treat cancer
Evidence is lacking to support this claim.

To treat diarrhea
Evidence is lacking to support this claim.

To treat irritable bowel syndrome
In a small study, a formula containing slippery elm improved bowel habits and symptoms in patients with IBS.

Topically, to treat skin sores
The mucilage content in slippery elm is thought to have a soothing effect when applied topically, but human data are lacking.

Slippery Elm

Common Nmaes

Potential Benefits

Scientific Name