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Slippery Elm Bark Powder Organic |
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Slippery Elm Bark Powder Organic
SLIPPERY ELM POWDER - Organic
(Ulmus fulva /Ulmus rubra)
History and Folklore
Slippery Elm derives from the inner bark of an American species of Elm known as Red Elm. Although Elm was also used in Europe and is even mentioned by Dioscorides, the use of this plant is more common in the United States and the UK, where it was introduced via the Native American Materia Medica. Elms have become quite a rare sight in the UK and Europe since the outbreak of the Dutch Elm disease wiped out huge populations of these trees. The fact, that it is the inner bark that is collected for medicinal use, which effectively kills the trees, does not bode well for their future, especially since Dutch Elm disease has also ravaged large populations in the United States and Canada. At present Red Elm is being considered for inclusion in the CITES list, so recent conservation efforts to ensure a sustainable harvest don't come a moment too soon. Slippery Elm was one of the original herbs included in the famous Essiac mixture, the herbal anti-cancer formula devised by the Canadian nurse Rene Caisse.
Medicinal Uses:
The main benefit of Slippery Elm is its soothing mucilaginous quality, which is equally comforting for a range of inner conditions as it is as an external application. Internally Slippery Elm soothes a sore throat like no other herb and can be a veritable life saver for singers. It is also excellent as a pacifier for the digestive system when this is in a state of upheaval. It lines the entire length of the mucous membrane of the tract thus reducing any possible irritation, such as may occur when stomach juices come in contact with ulcerated tissue. Thus it can be used in all types of irritable bowel or stomach conditions, ulcers, colitis and similar complaints. Slippery Elm powder also has actual nutritious properties, which makes it suitable as a food for convalescence, either by itself or mixed with other foods, which it will help to keep down. Slippery Elm also soothes an irritated urinary tract and may be helpful in inflammatory conditions of the bladder and kidneys.
Externally, Slippery Elm is an excellent herb for poultices to soothe sore and inflamed skin conditions such as nappy rash and sores. Native Americans also use it in combination with other herbs as a wound dressing or to treat burns, boils and ulcers.
Magical Uses:
There are no specific magical uses associated with Slippery Elm, however it may be of great service when attending ceremonies that demand long hours of chanting and praying.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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