Slippery Elm
Ulmus rubra
PLANT NAME
Slippery Elm
COMMON NAMES
Red elm, moose elm, Indian elm
BOTANICAL NAME
Ulmus rubra
IDENTIFICATION
A medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. Features rough, asymmetrical leaves and a mucilaginous inner bark.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Inner bark.
CULINARY USES
Inner bark can be ground into a powder to make a nutritious gruel or thickened tea, historically used as survival food.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used as a demulcent to soothe sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues like heartburn and diarrhea. Topically applied as a poultice for wounds.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Prefers moist, rich soils. Inner bark is harvested in the spring from branches rather than the main trunk to avoid killing the tree.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Generally safe. May delay the absorption of other medications if taken simultaneously. Always consult your doctor.
RELATED PLANTS
American elm (Ulmus americana).