Slippery elm Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

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# Slippery elm

Generic name: slippery elm [ SLIH-peh-ree-ELM ]
Drug class: Herbal products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 25, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is slippery elm?

Slippery elm is a tree also known as Indian Elm, Moose Elm, Olmo Americano, Orme, Orme Gras, Orme Rouge, Red Elm, Sweet Elm, Ulmus fulva, Ulmus rubra, and other names.

Slippery elm has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating sore throat.

Other uses not proven with research have included cancer, infections, irritable bowel syndrome, cough, diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids and others.

It is not certain whether slippery elm is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Slippery elm should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Slippery elm is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Slippery elm may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

## Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

## Before taking this medicine

Before using slippery elm, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use slippery elm if you have certain medical conditions.

It is not known whether slippery elm will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether slippery elm passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

## How should I take slippery elm?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use slippery elm, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different formulations of slippery elm (such as tablets, liquids, and others) at the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with slippery elm does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

## Related/similar drugs

Ginkgo Biloba, turmeric, saw palmetto

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra slippery elm to make up the missed dose.

## What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

## What should I avoid while taking slippery elm?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

## Slippery elm side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, slippery elm is thought to be likely safe for most people when taken by mouth.

Common side effects of slippery elm may include:

- skin irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

## What other drugs will affect slippery elm?

Other drugs may interact with slippery elm, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Do not take slippery elm without medical advice if you are taking:

- any oral medicine (taken by mouth).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with slippery elm, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

## Where can I get more information?

- Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## More about slippery elm

- Reviews (7)
- Drug class: herbal products
- En español

### Professional resources

- Advanced Reading

### Related treatment guides

- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Oral and Dental Conditions
- Cold Sores
- Gout
- Herbal Supplementation

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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