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

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Synopsis

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

Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) has been used traditionally in North American herbal medicine, especially by Indigenous peoples and later by settlers, as a remedy for various digestive ailments, including gastritis. The inner bark contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that, when mixed with water, forms a soothing coating. This mucilage is thought to line the stomach and esophagus, providing a protective barrier against irritants and helping to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with gastritis. Traditional texts and herbal compendia frequently reference slippery elm as a demulcent—a substance that relieves irritation of the mucous membranes. Modern clinical evidence for slippery elm bark’s efficacy in treating gastritis is limited. Most available studies are small, preliminary, or focus on general gastrointestinal discomfort rather than diagnosed gastritis. Some clinical observations and small trials suggest that slippery elm may help manage symptoms such as heartburn, sore throat, and mild gastrointestinal irritation, likely due to its mucilaginous properties. However, there are no large, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically investigating slippery elm for gastritis. The safety profile is generally considered good, with few reported side effects. In summary, while slippery elm bark is commonly used and recommended in traditional herbal medicine for gastritis and other digestive issues, scientific validation is limited and mostly indirect. Its use is primarily justified by tradition, with a modest but not robust evidence base.

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