Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) is a tall and graceful tree native to North America. The tree’s fibrous inner bark is wild harvested in spring in long strips that regrow within a few years. Rich in mucilage, slippery elm bark becomes slimy when mixed with water and is widely recognized for its demulcent properties.

Medicinally, slippery elm bark is a gentle and effective remedy for soothing sore throats, dry coughs, and occasional heartburn. Cut and sifted slippery elm bark is prepared as a tea or infused in oil to use topically in salves and lotions that relieve inflamed skin.

A historically significant food source, slippery elm bark powder can be made into a porridge that is nutritionally on par with oatmeal.

Like all native elms, slippery elm is susceptible to Dutch elm disease and is less common than it was a century ago. As a result, many herbalists recommend other common herbs with similar properties (like marshmallow root and mullein leaf) as alternatives.