Ulmus rubra
Slippery Elm
Ulmaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Slippery Elm
- Scientific name
- Ulmus rubra
- Family
- Ulmaceae
- Region
- North America
- Plant part
- Inner bark
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Insufficient
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A medium deciduous tree with large rough oval toothed leaves, small flat seed clusters, and a reddish-brown inner bark rich in soothing mucilage; the inner bark is the part used.
Also known as: Red Elm, Indian Elm, Moose Elm
Historical Background
Slippery elm has been a soothing remedy of Native American and early American medicine for centuries, its inner bark chewed or brewed for a gentle, mucilaginous gruel for throats and digestion. Listed in the US Pharmacopeia, it remains a beloved comforting herb — though wild trees are endangered, so cultivated bark is preferred.
Earliest recorded uses: Native American traditions for centuries; adopted into early American medicine and listed in the US Pharmacopeia.
Traditional preparations:
- Inner bark decoction
- Soothing gruel
- Throat blend with licorice & marshmallow
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Native American Traditions
Soothing throat, digestive, and wound herb; nourishing gruel.
Modern Herbalism
Gentle demulcent for throat and gut comfort.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Mild, earthy, slightly sweet, mucilaginous
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Slippery elm has a long tradition as a soothing throat and digestive herb. Clinical evidence is insufficient; its mucilage offers demulcent comfort, but it is not a treatment for GERD, IBD, sore throat, or any disease, and may slow medication absorption.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026