Evidence supporting the use of: Slippery elm bark
For the health condition: Duodenal Ulcers

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) has a long history of traditional use in North American herbal medicine, particularly among Indigenous peoples and early settlers. It is most commonly used for soothing the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract due to its high mucilage content, which forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water. This mucilage is believed to coat the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, providing symptomatic relief from irritation and inflammation. In the context of duodenal ulcers, traditional herbal medicine texts often recommend slippery elm as a demulcent to help protect ulcerated tissue, reduce pain, and promote healing by creating a barrier against stomach acid and digestive enzymes.

However, modern scientific validation for its use specifically in duodenal ulcers is limited. There are only a few low-quality clinical studies and animal experiments, and most evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional herbal practices. The herb is generally considered safe and has been included in some herbal formulas for peptic ulcers, but it is not recognized as a primary treatment in evidence-based medicine. Therefore, while the tradition supporting slippery elm's use for duodenal ulcers is strong, the scientific evidence is weak, meriting a rating of 2 out of 5.

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