Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in North America. Native American tribes and early settlers used slippery elm both internally and externally for various inflammatory conditions, including skin issues such as wounds, burns, and sometimes eczema. The bark contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that becomes slippery when mixed with water, which is believed to soothe irritated tissues and provide a protective barrier on the skin. As a result, topical preparations and poultices of slippery elm have been applied to skin affected by eczema to relieve itching, dryness, and inflammation.

However, there is limited scientific research directly supporting the effectiveness of slippery elm bark specifically for eczema. Most available evidence is anecdotal or based on its general action as a demulcent (soothing agent) and its traditional use for skin irritation. There are no large, well-designed clinical trials confirming its efficacy or safety for eczema, and its use is not incorporated into mainstream dermatological practice. In summary, the use of slippery elm bark for eczema is primarily justified by traditional use rather than rigorous scientific validation.

More about slippery elm bark
More about Eczema

Other ingredients used for Eczema

Other health conditions supported by slippery elm bark

Products containing slippery elm bark

Integrative Therapeutics Blue Heron
Pure Encapsulations DGL Plus®
Pure Encapsulations DGL Plus®
Douglas Laboratories Fiber-Plex ™
Pure Encapsulations G.I. Fortify
Thorne GI Relief GI-Encap
Designs For Health GI Revive®
Designs For Health GI Revive®
Pure Encapsulations Heartburn Essentials
Pure Encapsulations Heartburn Essentials
Klean Athlete Klean Probiotic ™
Douglas Laboratories Pylori-Plex
Integrative Therapeutics Similase Sensitive Stomach
Integrative Therapeutics Similase Sensitive Stomach