Slippery Elm Bark

I was not aware that slippery elm was indicated for gut inflammation. I am familiar with it as a remedy for sore throats/hoarseness and topically to relieve irritation caused by skin allergies.  I did just google it and it says it can be used for upset stomact/diarrhea. As for IBD, I am not sure.

If you are looking for something for IBD/inflammation, I have been taking turmeric for the past 1.5 years and I am happy with the results. A naturopath who happened to be on the ward with me when I was first diagnosed with UC, actually recommended turmeric, though I did not start taking it until years later. These days, its not uncommon for GIs to recommend it to their patients. It's good for joint pain as well.

Hi,

I took Slippery Elm on the advice of a Herbalist in the UK along with Turmeric when I had UC. In her book she explains "It contains mucilage which is a kind of starch released by soaking in cold water. This provides a protective coating over the entire digestive system & contributes a mild bulk laxative effect".

1 teaspoon to 1/2 cup water, 1-3 times per day.

Psyllium seed, Linseed & Marshmallow root have the same benefits described as "Demulcents"

Paul

Forgot to say it helped a little but there was nothing that helped an Auto immune disease, just took it to ease inflammation which it did

I took it for a while, but noticed no change.  I don't think it hurts to give it a try, though.

I too have started turmeric a year or so ago.  Again, hard to say whether it's making a real difference in my gut, but I do feel it helps joint pains.  My brother swears it helps his Crohn's symptoms.

Thank you all for the feedback. I"m undecided if I will try it as I'm not keen on taking something that probably won't work....tried afew things in the past which was just a waste of money.

Afew of you guys mentioned Turmeric? How is that taken. All I know about it is it comes in a powder form and you add it to food.

Yes, you can add the spice to your foods and/or take capsules.  I'm currently using "Doctor's Best" curcumin c3 complex. (500 mg.).  I believe I ordered them from Vitacost or Amazon.

The only time I had success with slippery elm was when I used in in the form of an enema back in the days when I still had a colon. After a colonoscopy I developed a flare (as usual). I had to take a weekend trip the next day and was looking for some quick relief. I had heard about using slippery elm as part of an enema preparation so gave it a try when I arrived at my hotel. It was a little wet and wild but I felt immediately better and had no problems the rest of that weekend.

I have not been able to repeat that level of success since - whether taking it orally or otherwise. I think it definitely can offer some symptomatic relief but probably under fairly limited circumstances.