Overview
Demulcent herb used for GERD, esophagitis, and IBS.
- Ulmus rubra inner bark
- Powder
- Lozenge
Mechanism of action
Mucilage coats and soothes GI mucosa.
- · Mucosal coating
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Soothes irritated mucosa.
Evidence-based benefits
Symptomatic relief in GERD / IBS (small studies)
Limited evidencePotential side effects
- · Slippery Elm is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- · Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- · Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
- · Allergic or hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- · Sleep disturbance if taken late in the day
- · Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- ·Children under 18 (unless directed by a clinician)
Supplement interactions
- A high-quality multivitaminCovers micronutrient cofactors that support most supplement pathways.
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Foundational anti-inflammatory support that complements most regimens.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Amazon code supplementsch-20 is auto-applied at checkout. We don't endorse specific brands; verify third-party testing (USP, NSF, Informed Sport) before purchase.
Third-party testedIndependently verified Slippery Elm — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Slippery Elm third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Slippery Elm capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Slippery Elm capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Slippery Elm powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Slippery Elm powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Slippery Elm products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Slippery Elm best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Herbal formulas containing slippery elm in IBS
Hawrelak JA, Myers SP
Pilot RCT of slippery elm–based blend in IBS.
Improved bowel habit and reduced straining.
PubMed: Slippery Elm — Symptomatic relief in GERD / IBS
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PubMed: Slippery Elm — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Slippery Elm — meta-analysis
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PubMed: Slippery Elm — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: Slippery Elm — dose response
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Google Scholar: Slippery Elm — clinical evidence
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Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.