Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) has a longstanding history of use in North American herbal medicine, particularly among Indigenous peoples and later in traditional Western herbalism. The inner bark of Slippery Elm contains mucilage, a gelatinous substance that becomes slick and soothing when mixed with water. Traditionally, Slippery Elm has been applied topically or taken orally to soothe irritations and inflammations of the mucous membranes, including those of the mouth and throat. For canker sores (aphthous ulcers), it is typically used as a powder or lozenge, sometimes formed into a paste and applied directly to the sores, or as a tea for oral rinsing.

While its demulcent (soothing) properties are well documented in herbal literature, robust scientific studies specifically investigating Slippery Elm’s effectiveness for canker sores are lacking. Most references to its use for this condition are anecdotal or based on traditional practice, rather than clinical trials. Research on Slippery Elm’s mucilage suggests it can provide a protective barrier and potentially reduce irritation, which may offer symptomatic relief for mouth ulcers, but there is little direct evidence for healing or prevention. Therefore, its use for canker sores is justified primarily by tradition, with limited scientific investigation to support or refute its effectiveness.

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