Ulmus (unspecified)
Synopsis of Ulmus (unspecified)
History
Ulmus, commonly known as elm, has a rich tradition of medicinal use spanning centuries, particularly in regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Among the various species, Ulmus rubra (Slippery Elm) has been most celebrated in herbal medicine, though other unspecified Ulmus species have also contributed to traditional remedies.
Historically, Ulmus bark—especially from the inner bark—has been valued for its soothing and demulcent properties. Indigenous peoples and early settlers in North America utilized slippery elm bark tea or poultices to treat sore throats, coughs, digestive complaints, and skin irritations. Its mucilage content forms a soothing gel when mixed with water, providing relief for conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, and inflammatory bowel issues. Applied topically, it has been used to soothe wounds, burns, and other skin ailments, promoting faster healing and comfort.
Ulmus has often been included in herbal combinations due to its gentle, supportive actions. It is a key ingredient in traditional formulas such as the Native American "Throat Soother" teas, and is a classic component of the renowned Essiac tea blend, which is used by some for immune support and detoxification. Combined with herbs like marshmallow root, licorice, and peppermint, Ulmus enhances the blend’s soothing qualities, particularly for digestive and respiratory health.
Overall, Ulmus’s longstanding use in folk medicine underscores its remarkable ability to provide comfort and support for various ailments. Its gentle, nourishing properties make it a valued ally in both stand-alone and combination herbal remedies, and it continues to be embraced in modern nutritional and wellness products.
Traditional and scientific validation
Ulmus, commonly referred to as elm, is a genus of deciduous and semi-deciduous trees that has been traditionally used in various medicinal and nutritional applications. In particular, the inner bark of certain Ulmus species, such as Ulmus rubra (slippery elm), has a long history of use in North American indigenous medicine for soothing digestive discomfort, sore throats, and skin irritations. The mucilaginous compounds present in Ulmus bark are believed to form a protective layer on mucous membranes, thereby providing relief from irritation.
Modern scientific validation for Ulmus primarily focuses on its soothing, demulcent properties. Preliminary laboratory studies and a limited number of clinical reports have indicated that Ulmus bark preparations may help support gastrointestinal health by reducing symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases and acid reflux. For example, a small pilot study suggested that slippery elm bark might alleviate symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), though larger, controlled trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Furthermore, Ulmus is valued in nutritional products for its high fiber content and potential antioxidant properties, which may contribute to overall well-being. While current scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Ulmus is promising, it remains limited, and more rigorous clinical research is necessary to fully establish its health benefits. Nonetheless, its longstanding traditional use and favorable safety profile make Ulmus a respected ingredient in nutritional and herbal supplements aimed at supporting digestive and mucosal health.
Ulmus (unspecified) is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Ulmus (unspecified) is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Rectum (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
