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

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) has been used traditionally in North American herbal medicine, particularly by Native American groups, for a variety of ailments, primarily those affecting the digestive and respiratory tracts. The inner bark contains mucilage, which forms a soothing gel when mixed with water. This property makes it popular for sore throats, coughs, and gastrointestinal complaints. In the context of kidney infection (pyelonephritis), there is limited traditional evidence suggesting slippery elm was used to "soothe the urinary tract" or as part of general tonics, but it was not a primary or well-documented remedy for kidney infections specifically. The rationale may have come from its demulcent (soothing) properties, aiming to relieve irritation in mucous membranes, including those of the urinary system.

However, there is minimal scientific evidence supporting the use of slippery elm for kidney infections, and it is not recognized in modern phytotherapy as a treatment for urinary tract infections or kidney infections. The demulcent effect, while valuable for some conditions, does not address the bacterial causes or inflammation associated with kidney infections. Therefore, while there is some minor traditional use, it is neither robust nor scientifically validated for this specific condition. Anyone with a suspected kidney infection should seek prompt medical treatment, as these infections can be serious and require antibiotics.

More about slippery elm bark
More about Kidney Infection