Slippery elm is the newest “superfood” quickly taking over the web. The supplement is being touted as a must have for women’s general, and vaginal, health. But, what is slippery elm? Read on for a closer look at slippery elm’s benefits for women.
“Slippery elm, scientifically known as Ulmus rubra, is a North American tree valued for its medicinal properties,” sexologist at BedBible, Rhiannon John told 21Ninety.
John explained that people indigenous to the Americas have used tree bark’s inner fluid (aka mucilage) for years. These communities use it to treat a range of internal and external ailments – including healing wounds and treating sore throats.
What are slippery elm benefits for women?
General practitioner Blen Tesfu, MD told 21Ninety that “slippery elm’s soothing properties may provide some relief from vaginal dryness or irritation.” However, both experts mentioned that more scientific research needs to be done to determine the “specific side effects” of taking slippery elm for vaginal health.
“Some anecdotal reports suggest potential benefits for sexual health, including increased vaginal lubrication,” John explained.
The sexologist continued to mention that the recommended route to help alleviate vaginal dryness is to use a vaginal moisturizer.
“If concerns persist, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can help identify any underlying factors contributing to the dryness,” John noted.
What are the general benefits of taking slippery elm benefits?
Dr. Tesfu and John note that the benefits of slippery elm benefits aren’t exclusive to women.
Here are some of the conditions where it’s beneficial to reach for a slippery elm supplement according to Dr. Tesfu:
Digestive issues: Slippery elm inner fluid mixed with water forms a gel. That gel that can help soothe the lining of the gastrointestinal tract.
“[Slippery elm] can provide relief from conditions such as heartburn, gastritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis,” Dr. Tesfu said.
Sore throat and cough: Slippery elm’s mucilage can coat the throat.
“[It can] provide a soothing effect and alleviate sore throat and cough symptoms,” Dr. Tesfu explained.
Healing wounds: The general practitioner mentioned that slippery elm can “help promote wound healing and relieve skin irritations.” That includes burns, rashes, and minor wounds.
Skin Moisturizer: Another suggested benefit to using slippery elm includes using the supplement as a moisturizer and skin protectant.
“It may help with conditions like dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis,” Dr. Tesfu said.
Types of slippery elm products available
“Slippery elm is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, lozenges, and teas,” Dr. Tesfu explained.
She also added that the type of slippery elm supplement you take depends on what you’re trying to treat. For digestive issues, you’d take slippery elm powder mixed with water or capsules, according to Dr. Tesfu.
“For topical applications, such as wound healing or skincare, [slippery elm] is often applied as a poultice (aka soft moist mass) or included in ointments or creams,” Dr. Tesfu said.
Overall both experts say that, while slippery elm has an extensive history within indigenous communities, there is still a limited amount of scientific research done on the supplement.
That being said, if you’re not sure that you’d benefit from taking slippery elm, make sure to consult your medical provider before taking or applying the supplement. “Especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications,” Dr. Tesfu warned.
NOW Foods Slippery Elm Powder
NOW Foods has a Slippery Elm Powder that comes in a four-ounce container. At one teaspoon per 1,500 mg serving, there are 75 servings in each bottle.
To take this powder, mix one teaspoon of the powder with one cup of water. Then, simmer the mixture for several minutes. Let the mixture cool down. Once cool you can sip or gargle the slippery elm depending on your needs.
Swanson Health Products Slippery Elm Bark Capsules
The Slippery Elm Bark Capsules by Swanson Health Products are a convenient way to ingest the supplement. Each capsule has 400 mg of slippery elm bark powder.
To reap the bark benefits, take two capsules everyday. You get 60 capsules in one bottle.
Thayers Natural Remedies Slippery Elm Slip Balm
Ready to hop on the slippery elm bar train? Give Thayers Natural Remedies Slippery Elm Slip Balm a try.
The moisturizing lip balm blends slippery elm with beeswax, vitamin E, and extra virgin olive oil. These ingredients combined help to protect the lips from environmental stressors. Plus, it’s infused with orange oil which is added as a natural fragrance and flavor.
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