Slippery Elm Bark, Cut & Sifted (Organic)

Slippery elm is one of North America's most beloved and most at-risk medicinal trees. Native to the eastern woodlands, it was a cornerstone of Indigenous medicine long before European contact — used by dozens of tribes for everything from wound poultices to nourishing gruels for the sick and elderly. The inner bark, when moistened, produces a thick, slippery mucilage that has made it one of the most soothing herbs in the entire materia medica. Today, wild slippery elm is listed as an at-risk species by United Plant Savers due to decades of overharvesting and the ongoing devastation of Dutch elm disease. Certified organic slippery elm bark is genuinely rare — and worth seeking out.

Our slippery elm is certified organic cut and sifted inner bark — the inner bark of Ulmus rubra, carefully harvested and dried to preserve its rich mucilaginous compounds. Pale tan and fibrous, with a mild, slightly sweet, faintly earthy aroma. When steeped in water it produces a thick, viscous, deeply soothing liquid that coats and calms wherever it goes. Certified organic and packed to order in small batches.

Traditionally Used to Support

• Digestive soothing and gut lining support — slippery elm's most celebrated use; the mucilage coats and soothes the entire digestive tract; traditionally used to support a healthy gut lining, ease digestive discomfort, and support overall gastrointestinal wellness
• Respiratory comfort and throat soothing — traditionally used to soothe and coat the throat and upper respiratory tract; a classic herb for throat comfort and respiratory wellness; one of the original ingredients in traditional throat lozenges
• Nutritive and restorative support — historically used as a nourishing gruel for the sick, elderly, and convalescing; rich in mucilaginous polysaccharides that provide gentle, easily digestible nourishment; traditionally used to support recovery and overall vitality
• Healthy inflammatory response in the digestive tract — the mucilage creates a protective coating along the digestive tract; traditionally used to support the body's healthy inflammatory response in the gut and support overall digestive comfort
• Urinary tract comfort — traditionally used to soothe and support the urinary tract; the mucilaginous compounds coat and calm mucous membranes throughout the body, including the urinary passages

How to Use

As a decoction (tea): Simmer 1–2 teaspoons of cut and sifted slippery elm bark in 8–10 oz of water for 15–20 minutes, covered. Strain and drink warm. The liquid will be noticeably thick and viscous — that is the mucilage at work. Mildly sweet and very soothing. Add honey and cinnamon to taste.

As a gruel or porridge: Mix 1–2 teaspoons of slippery elm powder (ground from cut bark) into warm water or milk, stirring constantly until it thickens. A traditional preparation for digestive support and nourishment during illness or recovery.

Blending: Pairs beautifully with marshmallow root for a deeply soothing digestive and respiratory blend, licorice root for additional gut support, or ginger and cinnamon to warm and balance the formula.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, cut and sifted slippery elm bark retains its potency for 2–3 years.

Generally considered very safe and gentle. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or nursing. The mucilage may slow the absorption of medications — take slippery elm at least one hour apart from any medications.

Certified organic. Cut and sifted inner bark. At-risk species — sourced responsibly. No fillers, additives, or artificial ingredients.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.