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Slippery elm

Drug class: natural products

What is Slippery elm?

The tree is also called Indian Elm (Ulmus fulva), Moose Elm (Ulmus rubra), Orme Gras, or Orme Rouge. Alternative medicine has used slippery elm as a possible effective treatment for sore mouths. Researchers have not yet proven that other uses, such as cancer, infections, irritable bowel disorder, cough, diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, etc., can be made.

There is no way to know if slippery elm can be used as a medicine. The FDA has not approved the use of this product for medical purposes. You should not use slippery elm in place of any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Many herbal supplements contain slippery elm. Many herbal compounds aren't produced according to industry regulations, leading to some supplements on the market being found contaminated with toxic drugs or metals. To minimize the risk, herbal or health supplements must be purchased from a reputable source. This product guide does not list all possible uses for slippery elm.

Side effects of Slippery elm

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling in lips, face, tongue or throat. Please seek medical assistance immediately.

While not all side effects have been identified, it is believed that slippery elm can be taken safely by most people.

Side effects of slippery elm include:

  • Skin irritation.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Similar/related drugs

Turmeric, Ginkgo Biloba, and Echinacea

Warnings

Please read all instructions on the label or package of your product. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.

Before you take this drug

Speak to your doctor before using slippery elm. If you suffer from certain medical conditions, you may not be able to use slippery elm. The slippery elm is not known to harm unborn babies. If you are pregnant, do not use this product unless medical advice is sought.

There is no way to know if slippery elm can pass into breast milk or if it will harm a baby who is nursing. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not use this product. Don't give herbal or health supplements to children without consulting a doctor.

How to take slippery elm?

Consult your doctor before using herbal supplements. Consult a health practitioner trained in herbal or health supplement use. Use slippery elm as directed on the label or by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Use only the recommended amount of product on the label.

Use different formulations (such as liquids, tablets, etc.) Of slippery elm at the same time only if a healthcare professional has specifically instructed you to do so. Combining multiple formulations increases the risk of overdose. If the condition that you are trying to treat with slippery elm doesn't improve or worsens while using it, call your doctor. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If your next dose is approaching quickly, do not take the missed one. You should not take extra slippery elm in order to make up for the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Ensure you abide by any restrictions your doctor has outlined regarding food, beverage or activity.

Interaction with other drug

Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products, may also interact with slippery elm. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.

You should consult your doctor before taking slippery elm if you:

  • Oral medicine is any medication taken by mouth.

This list is incomplete. Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products, may interact with slippery Elm. This product guide does not list all possible interactions.