Overview
Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) is a sweet herb with cooling virya and sweet vipaka. It pacifies Vata and Pitta (VP-) but aggravates Kapha and Ama (K and Ama+). It works mainly on the plasma tissue through the respiratory and digestive systems.
Slippery Elm is a highly nutritive, tonic herbal food for conditions of tissue deficiency. It helps rebuild the plasma element of the body and restores the mucous membranes, particularly of the lungs and stomach. It is excellent for recovery from chronic lung ailments, desiccated lung tissue, dryness in the lungs, and for soothing and healing ulcerated membranes and surfaces. Its key actions include nutritive tonic, demulcent, expectorant, emollient, and mild astringent properties.
It is indicated for debility, convalescence, ulcers, hyperacidity, skin eruptions, burns, lung hemorrhage, and weakness of the lungs. It is prepared as a decoction, powder (500 mg to 2 g), gruel, paste, or milk decoction. Note that slippery elm is heavy and may be hard to digest.
Precautions: Slippery Elm should be avoided in cases of severe lung congestion, edema, high Kapha, and high Ama.
Source: The Yoga of Herbs, Section A: Commonly Available Herbs
How to Use Slippery Elm by Condition
Explore how Slippery Elm is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.