When ground to a fine powder, this bark makes an excellent flour
extender and can be used in a variety of recipes. Some writers
claim that it has a food value equal to that of oatmeal and have
recommended it as a wholesome and nourishing food for invalids
and children. The demulcent, emollient and wound healing
properties of slippery elm are due to its mucilage content. The
mucilage is viscous fiber that lowers the bowel transit time,
absorbs toxins from the bowel, regulates intestinal flora and
soothes the lining of the digestive tract. The demulcent effects
are also active when the herb is used externally as a poultice
or in an ointment. The most popular use of slippery elm is as a
demulcent expectorant. This property is explained by the ability
of tannins to combine with mucous and precipitate it. Slippery
elm decoctions are consumed hourly to coat the throat and allow
the tannins to congeal the mucous build-ups, thus facilitating
the expulsion of excess mucous. Beware of respiratory formulas
based on slip