One of the main health benefits of slippery elm is that it makes a soothing substance for anything it comes in contact with. This is owing to the fact that slippery elm bark's mucilage, which is mainly composed on easy to digest complex carbohydrates which are non-toxic.

 

The inner bark of the slippery elm tree has been used as a herbal remedy for centuries. Native Americans traditionally used slippery elm in healing salves and poultices for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation. It was also taken orally to relieve coughs, sore throats, diarrhea and stomach problems.

 

On contact with water, slippery elm becomes mucilaginous (slimey, gel-like) in texture which accounts for the majority of its medicinal properties. It has demulcent (soothing) actions on all mucous membranes, inducing those of the digestive tract, urinary and respiratory tract and also soothes the skin on contact. It also has astringent effects, tightening the surface on which it contacts, providing an effective barrier to bacterial infection and alleviating diarrhea.