Slippery Elm
for Digestive Tract Upsets

Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) is in the elm family. Slippery elm is a deciduous tree and the part used is the inner bark. When used, slippery elm lubricates, soothes, and protects internal mucous membranes; it is also an astringent and anti-inflammatory. It is best used in the digestive tract, where it serves as a soothing, protecting, and lubricating demulcent and a general astringent at the same time. Therefore, it is good for diarrhea, colitis, enteritis, as well as irritations of the stomach. The tannin constituents of slippery elm tighten digestive mucosa to reduce inflammation and inhibit the entrance of excess fluids into the intestines. At the same time, the slippery, oily mucilage constituents of the herb help lubricate the digestive tract to assist in the elimination of waste. Slippery elm is also nutritious as it contains vitamins A, B complex, C and K and high amounts of calcium, magnesium and sodium. Only purchase the inner bark for use. This comes in a powder and has a pecan like flavor.
Diarrhea is a symptom. It is caused by an overabundance of fluid entering the intestinal tract. There are many things that can cause diarrhea, including stress. For simple diarrhea where the cause is unknown but the animal is acting fine otherwise, you can simply fast the animal for 24-48 hours. Sometimes the animal will stop eating and may also become quiet, preferring not to be disturbed. This is the body’s attempt to heal and we need to respect that. Don’t try to force food into the animal, but be observant. Take your dog’s temperature. If it is normal, that’s good. If your pet is spiking a temperature (normal temperature for a dog is 101° - 102°) then you might want to contact your veterinarian. Otherwise, make sure there is clean filtered or spring water available during the fast. Do not use city tap water. You can steep 1 teaspoon of the dried inner bark in 8 ounces of hot water to which 1 teaspoon of honey has been added. Give this mixture, once cooled, to your pet. You can give it in three doses throughout the day.
I have found that when I’ve had to address one of my dogs having diarrhea, fasting and using slippery elm corrects the problem. If you do not see a response within two days, and/or if there is vomiting and/or bloody diarrhea, contact your veterinarian.
Please Note: Slippery elm should not be given to pregnant animals because it is high in tannin constituents (so are white oak bark, black walnut hulls and uva ursi) and may cause uterine contractions and miscarriage.

Herbs can provide a wonderful, natural alternative to drugs and chemicals. Before you use any herb, be sure to research and understand its usage before using it. Information in this article was referenced from Herbs for Pets, by Mary L. Wulff-Tilford and Gregory L. Tilford. I recommend this book highly.