{"product_id":"slippery-elm-bark","title":"Slippery Elm Bark","description":"\u003ch1\u003eSlippery Elm Bark (\u003cem\u003eUlmus rubra\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhole Bark, Full Spectrum — The Complete Demulcent for Gut, Throat, and Skin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBotanical Identification\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUlmus rubra\u003c\/em\u003e (syn. \u003cem\u003eUlmus fulva\u003c\/em\u003e), commonly known as slippery elm, red elm, or moose elm, is a deciduous tree native to the central and eastern United States and southeastern Canada. It inhabits rich bottomlands, stream valleys, and lower slopes from southern Quebec to Florida and west to the Dakotas and Texas. The tree grows 12–20 meters tall and is identified by its rough, grayish-brown outer bark with deep furrows, large alternating leaves that are sandpaper-rough on the upper surface, and distinctive reddish-brown inner bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is \u003cstrong\u003eslippery elm bark\u003c\/strong\u003e — comprising both the outer bark and inner bark layers processed together, providing the full spectrum of compounds found across all bark tissues. This distinguishes it from the pure inner bark product, which consists exclusively of the mucilage-rich cambium layer. The whole bark preparation retains higher concentrations of tannins, fiber, and certain minerals from the outer bark while still delivering significant mucilage content from the included inner bark fraction. It is available in cut-and-sifted, coarsely ground, or powdered forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCultural and Historical Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlippery elm bark has been a cornerstone of North American herbal medicine for millennia. Indigenous nations including the Ojibwe, Menominee, Meskwaki, and Cherokee utilized the bark in multiple preparations — teas for coughs and sore throats, poultices for wounds and skin eruptions, and nutritive gruels during times of scarcity or illness. The Iroquois brewed bark tea for bowel complaints and used bark strips as natural bandages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early American settler medicine, slippery elm bark became arguably the single most versatile remedy in the domestic medicine chest. It appeared in the United States Pharmacopeia from 1820 to 1960 and was prescribed by regular physicians, homeopaths, and Eclectics alike. Dr. Wooster Beach, founder of the Reformed Medical movement, called slippery elm \"the most valuable article in the botanic practice of medicine.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the American frontier era, slippery elm bark lozenges were sold in every general store for throat and cough relief — a tradition that continues in commercial throat lozenges today. The whole bark was also used industrially for its mucilage as a binding agent in poultices and pill manufacture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Bioactive Compounds\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCompound\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eClass\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePrimary Activity\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMucilage (hexose and pentose sugars)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolysaccharide\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDemulcent, tissue coating, moisture retention\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTannins (condensed and hydrolysable)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolyphenol\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAstringent, antimicrobial, anti-diarrheal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStarch\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolysaccharide\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNutritive, energy substrate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBeta-sitosterol\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePhytosterol\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAnti-inflammatory, immune modulation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCalcium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMineral\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBone health, nerve signaling, muscle function\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDietary Fiber\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolysaccharide complex\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBowel regulation, prebiotic fermentation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSesquiterpenes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTerpenoid\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAnti-inflammatory, mild antimicrobial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow It Works in the Body\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlippery elm bark operates through both mechanical and biochemical pathways. The mucilage fraction — present in significant though somewhat lower concentration than in pure inner bark preparations — hydrates into a viscous gel upon contact with water. This gel coats the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines, forming a protective film that shields irritated tissue from acid, enzymes, and mechanical abrasion. This coating action is the basis of its classification as a demulcent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tannin content, which is proportionally higher in the whole bark than in pure inner bark, adds a complementary astringent action. While mucilage soothes and coats, tannins tighten and tone relaxed or weeping tissues, reduce excessive secretion, and provide mild antimicrobial activity. This dual action — demulcent plus astringent — makes the whole bark particularly useful for conditions involving both inflammation and excessive fluid loss, such as diarrhea with intestinal irritation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fiber content contributes to bowel regulation by adding bulk to stool and normalizing transit time. Beta-sitosterol and other phytosterols provide systemic anti-inflammatory effects when absorbed. The starch content makes slippery elm bark mildly nutritive, contributing to its traditional role as a food for the ill and convalescing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough reflex stimulation of the vagus nerve from the gut lining, slippery elm also promotes increased mucus production in distant mucosal surfaces, including the respiratory tract — explaining why an orally ingested bark tea can ease a dry cough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDose Guidelines\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eForm\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSuggested Dose\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCut-and-Sifted Bark (decoction)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1–2 tablespoons per 2 cups water, simmered 15–20 minutes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStrain and drink warm; will be moderately thick\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePowdered Bark\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1–2 teaspoons stirred into warm water or milk\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSlightly less viscous than pure inner bark powder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCapsules\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e400–800 mg, up to 3 times daily\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTake with a full glass of water\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePoultice (external)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMix powder with warm water to form a paste\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApply to affected area; cover with cloth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor digestive complaints, take 20–30 minutes before meals. For sore throat, sip slowly and allow the liquid to coat the throat fully before swallowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePreparation and Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecoction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Add 1–2 tablespoons of cut-and-sifted bark to 2 cups of cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer and maintain for 15–20 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve. The resulting liquid will be slightly thick and amber-colored. Drink warm, sweetened with honey if desired.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Gruel:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stir 1–2 teaspoons of powdered bark into a cup of warm water or warm milk. Whisk vigorously to prevent lumps. Season with cinnamon, nutmeg, or maple syrup for a nourishing porridge.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThroat Gargle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prepare a strong decoction (double the bark) and use as a gargle for sore throat, mouth ulcers, or gum inflammation. Gargle for 30 seconds, then swallow or spit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSkin Poultice:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blend powdered bark with warm water to make a thick paste. Apply to minor burns, insect bites, rashes, or slow-healing wounds. The combined mucilage and tannin content soothes while gently drawing out impurities.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlended into Foods:\u003c\/strong\u003e Add powdered bark to smoothies, oatmeal, or soup to increase their demulcent properties. The mild, slightly sweet flavor blends easily with most foods.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOptimal Context for Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDigestive Inflammation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Whole bark is well-suited for general digestive irritation, gastritis, and intestinal inflammation where both coating and astringent actions are beneficial.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiarrhea with Irritation:\u003c\/strong\u003e The tannin content in the whole bark provides astringent anti-diarrheal support that the pure inner bark lacks, making this form preferable when loose stools accompany gut inflammation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSore Throat and Upper Respiratory Irritation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Effective for pharyngitis, post-nasal drip, and dry coughs. The thinner mucilage of the whole bark compared to pure inner bark makes it easier to prepare as a drinkable tea.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSkin Conditions:\u003c\/strong\u003e External poultice application for minor wounds, rashes, eczema flares, and insect bites leverages both demulcent and astringent properties.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGeneral Daily Gut Maintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The prebiotic fiber and mild mucilage content make whole bark tea a gentle daily tonic for long-term digestive wellness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSustainability and Ethical Harvesting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlippery elm is under increasing ecological pressure from Dutch elm disease, emerald ash borer damage to companion species, habitat conversion, and overharvesting for the herbal market. The United Plant Savers has placed \u003cem\u003eUlmus rubra\u003c\/em\u003e on its \"To Watch\" list. Ethical sourcing requires bark harvested only from sustainably managed woodlots, storm-fallen trees, or trees being removed for legitimate land management. Never purchase bark from suppliers who cannot verify sustainable sourcing. Supporting nurseries that cultivate slippery elm and using the herb judiciously rather than as a daily staple are important steps for conservation. Where possible, consider marshmallow root (\u003cem\u003eAlthaea officinalis\u003c\/em\u003e) as a cultivated demulcent alternative for routine use, reserving slippery elm for situations where its unique properties are specifically indicated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSafety and Cautions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMedication Interactions:\u003c\/strong\u003e The mucilage coating may slow absorption of oral medications. Separate dosing by at least 2 hours from any prescription or over-the-counter drugs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePregnancy:\u003c\/strong\u003e Whole bark preparations that include outer bark should be used with caution during pregnancy. The outer bark of \u003cem\u003eUlmus rubra\u003c\/em\u003e was historically associated with abortifacient use. Though the risk from a mixed bark product at normal doses is likely very low, pregnant individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use or opt for the pure inner bark product instead.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eObstruction Risk:\u003c\/strong\u003e When taking powdered bark in dry form, always consume with adequate water to prevent esophageal or intestinal obstruction from the swelling mucilage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAllergic Reactions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rare but documented. Discontinue use if itching, rash, or respiratory symptoms occur.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGenerally Recognized as Safe:\u003c\/strong\u003e Slippery elm bark has an extensive safety record. The FDA classifies it as a safe and effective oral demulcent for minor throat irritation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eReferences\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWatts, C. R., and Rousseau, B. (2012). \"Slippery Elm, its Biochemistry, and use as a Complementary and Alternative Treatment for Laryngeal Irritation.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Investigational Biochemistry\u003c\/em\u003e, 1(1), 17–23.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHawrelak, J. A., and Myers, S. P. (2010). \"Effects of two natural medicine formulations on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine\u003c\/em\u003e, 16(10), 1065–1071.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLangmead, L., et al. (2002). \"Antioxidant effects of herbal therapies used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease.\" \u003cem\u003eAlimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics\u003c\/em\u003e, 16(2), 197–205.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMoerman, D. E. (1998). \u003cem\u003eNative American Ethnobotany\u003c\/em\u003e. Timber Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFelter, H. W., and Lloyd, J. U. (1898). \u003cem\u003eKing's American Dispensatory\u003c\/em\u003e. Ohio Valley Company.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnited Plant Savers. \"Species At-Risk List.\" \u003cem\u003eunitedplantsavers.org\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFinal Note\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is sold as a raw botanical specimen for personal research and traditional use. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and reflects historical use and available scientific literature. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a chronic health condition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sugar Creek Trading Company","offers":[{"title":"powder \/ 25g","offer_id":50934970417450,"sku":null,"price":8.75,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 25g","offer_id":50934970450218,"sku":null,"price":9.52,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 50g","offer_id":50934970482986,"sku":null,"price":14.88,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 50g","offer_id":50934970515754,"sku":null,"price":16.18,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 100g","offer_id":50934970548522,"sku":null,"price":27.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 100g","offer_id":50934970581290,"sku":null,"price":30.43,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 250g","offer_id":50934970614058,"sku":null,"price":59.43,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 250g","offer_id":50934970646826,"sku":null,"price":64.65,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 500g","offer_id":50934970679594,"sku":null,"price":110.55,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 500g","offer_id":50934970712362,"sku":null,"price":120.26,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 1kg","offer_id":50934970745130,"sku":null,"price":207.83,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 1kg","offer_id":50934970777898,"sku":null,"price":226.08,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 2kg","offer_id":50934970810666,"sku":null,"price":394.87,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 2kg","offer_id":50934970843434,"sku":null,"price":429.55,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 5kg","offer_id":50934970876202,"sku":null,"price":937.82,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 5kg","offer_id":50934970908970,"sku":null,"price":1020.19,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 10kg","offer_id":50934970941738,"sku":null,"price":1938.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 10kg","offer_id":50934970974506,"sku":null,"price":1781.85,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 25kg","offer_id":50934971007274,"sku":null,"price":4603.6,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 25kg","offer_id":50934971040042,"sku":null,"price":4231.9,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 50kg","offer_id":50934971072810,"sku":null,"price":8746.84,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 50kg","offer_id":50934971105578,"sku":null,"price":8040.6,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 100kg","offer_id":50934971138346,"sku":null,"price":16618.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 100kg","offer_id":50934971171114,"sku":null,"price":15277.15,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/3547\/6010\/files\/slippery-elm-bark.png?v=1772272194","url":"https:\/\/sugarcreektradingcompany.com\/products\/slippery-elm-bark","provider":"Sugar Creek Trading Company","version":"1.0","type":"link"}