• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Colitis and diverticulitis
• Inflammation of the gut or colic
• Can give instant relief to acid indigestion or 'reflux'  (this is a common use for Slippery Elm)
• Ulcers anywhere in the gut (stomach & intestines)
• Diarrhoea - especially if mixed with a banana and powdered Marshmallow
• As a nutritive (a nourishing herb). Slippery Elm powder is a great food for debilitated states, and as a baby food
• It can also be useful for urinary infections - cystitis for example.
• Traditionally, Slippery Elm bark is also reported to ease chest, lung and bronchial conditions

Slippery Elm is great by itself for colitis and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). It can also be combined with other herbs including wild yam, bayberry and agrimony to make an excellent combination herbal formula for colitis or IBS. This is great if taken along with Slippery Elm Tea. Find a product, or products, which work for you - either the single herb or a combination of herbs - and continue for a full course of treatment. Have Slippery Elm Tea every day.

Another valuable herb to bear in mind is Cayenne Pepper - Capsicum minimum, which tends to stop bleeding. Cayenne is very, very helpful to counteract any intestinal bleeding. You can take cayenne pepper in water - but it is rather hot, so most people prefer to take capsules. Take 3 capsules a day of Cayenne Capsules for a few weeks or longer if desired. It works very well alongside Slippery Elm. (But DO visit your doctor to make sure the bleeding has no sinister cause.)

We have an article on the valuable herb, Cayenne Pepper. More information on another site about herbal and other treatments for irritable bowel syndrome - IBS.

Cayenne and Slippery Elm are two beautifully simple and truly fantastic herbs. When they are needed - they are incomparable. They would both definitely be in this herbalist's 'Top Ten Herbs To Have On A Desert Island.' 

CAUTIONS
There are no-known contra-indications for Slippery Elm bark - it is a very safe herb.


SUMMARY
Slippery Elm is an incredibly soothing herb, with fast acting relief for many digestive and bowel problems. It certainly lives up to its reputation.

If you have or are thinking of making a herbal first aid kit, Slippery Elm powder is an essential component. It's safe and nutritious for all the family - a herb you should always have close at hand.