Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Healing with Slippery Elm
Even the Food and Drug Administration calls this herb “an excellent demulcent” (soothing agent).
Wounds - Slippery elm bark contains special cells that expand into a spongy mass in the presence of liquid. Applied to thoroughly cleaned wounds, it dries to form an herbal bandage.
Cough, Sore Throat, Digestive Complaints - Slippery elm decoction helps soothe the throat and digestive tract.
Women’s Health - Slippery elm decoction has a long history of use by pregnant women, and the medical literature contains no reports of problems. The active constituent, mucilage, should not harm the fetus. If you have a history of problematic pregnancy, however, consult your physician before using it.
Myth - Slippery elm has never been shown to speed the Healing of broken bones.
Rx for Slippery Elm
For a poultice to bandage wounds, stir enough water into powdered bark to make a paste and apply to the affected area.
For a soothing decoction, use I to 3 teaspoons of powdered herb per cup of water. Blend a little water in first to prevent lumpiness. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day. Slippery elm has only a slight taste and a mild aroma reminiscent of maple.
Slippery elm may be given cautiously to children under age 2.