Evidence supporting the use of: Slippery elm bark
For the body system: Teeth

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Synopsis

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

Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) has a long history of use in North American herbalism, primarily for soothing mucous membranes in the digestive and respiratory tracts due to its mucilage content. While Native American and early Western herbal traditions also referenced its use in oral care—such as creating poultices for mouth ulcers, sore throats, or using it as a chewing stick—there is little direct evidence supporting its effectiveness specifically for strengthening teeth or improving dental health. The mucilage can provide a soothing effect for irritated tissues in the mouth and may help with minor mouth sores, but there is no substantial clinical evidence to suggest it supports tooth structure, enamel, or prevents dental decay. Modern scientific studies are lacking in this area; most references to slippery elm and oral health are based on traditional use rather than robust research. Therefore, its application for the teeth body system is primarily justified by traditional, anecdotal use, and the evidence for its effectiveness in this context is weak.

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