Botanical

Slippery Elm

Also known as: Ulmus rubra, Slippery elm bark, Red elm

Evidence

Demulcent herb that coats and soothes the digestive tract, from esophagus to colon.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.

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Primary uses

GI soothing
GERD
IBD support
Sore throat

How it works

Creates protective mucilage coating
Soothes irritated tissues
May support gut barrier
Traditional GI remedy

Dosage

Typical range: 400-1000mg 3x daily, or 1-2 tsp powder in water
Timing: Between meals or before meals
With food: Often away from food for coating effect
Duration: As needed, generally safe long-term
Special populations: GERD, IBD, digestive inflammation

Forms

Powder
Lozenges
Capsules

Safety

Common side effects

May slow medication absorption

Contraindications

None significant

Products containing Slippery Elm

Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Slippery Elm on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.

Thorne

GI Relief

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Evidence notes

Traditional use, limited clinical research

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

Related in Botanical

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.