Evidence supporting the use of: Slippery elm bark
For the health condition: Hiatal Hernia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) has been traditionally used in North American herbal medicine for various ailments of the digestive tract. Its main historical use is as a demulcent—meaning it soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes. This property is attributed to its high mucilage content, which forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water, thought to coat the esophagus and stomach lining. In traditional herbal practice, slippery elm has sometimes been recommended for symptoms related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, and general digestive discomfort—conditions that may overlap with or mimic symptoms of a hiatal hernia (such as heartburn or esophageal irritation).

However, there is little to no direct scientific research on slippery elm specifically for hiatal hernia. Most of the supportive evidence for its use is anecdotal or based on its general soothing effects on the upper digestive tract. No clinical trials have directly investigated its efficacy for hiatal hernia, nor is it recognized in conventional medical guidelines for this condition. Thus, while traditional herbalists may recommend slippery elm to help manage the symptomatic discomfort associated with hiatal hernia, this use is not strongly validated by modern science. The evidence supporting its use is weak (rated 1 out of 5) and primarily based on traditional practice rather than robust clinical data.

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