Ulmus Rubra

Common Names:

slippery elm, red elm, soft elm, gray elm, moose elm, Indian elm

Binomial Name:

Ulmus rubra Muhl.

Family:

Ulmaceae

Used Plant Parts:

The inner bark of the tree is the part utilized.

In Celtic mythology, elm trees were linked to elves, believed to protect burial mounds and oversee the journey to the Underworld.

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Origin and Distribution:

Origin:

Ulmus rubra, also recognized as smooth elm or red elm, is a species originating from the eastern part of North America. Its presence in this region has been established for thousands of years.

Distribution Areas:

• United States: Ulmus is extensively found throughout the eastern United States. Its range starts from the Gulf Coast states, such as Florida and Louisiana, continues through the East Coast states like North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland, and stretches northward into New England.
  In the west, it includes parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Minnesota.
• Canada: The elm’s range extends to southeastern Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebec.

Conservation Status:

Red elm, along with other elm species, has been impacted by Dutch elm disease (Ceratocystis ulmi), a harmful fungus. This disease has led to a decline in elm populations across North America and beyond.

Efforts in conservation and the development of disease-resistant cultivars are vital for the preservation of red elm populations.

Botanical Description:

Ulmus rubra, commonly called smooth elm or red elm, is a deciduous tree in the moss family. It is native to North America, primarily found in the eastern and central regions of the United States and southeastern Canada.

The tree is noted for its unique properties, including the reddish-brown inner bark, which was historically used for a variety of medicinal and industrial purposes.

Size and Growth:

Ulmus rubra is a medium to large tree, capable of reaching heights between 12 to 21 meters, occasionally taller. It has expansive branches providing ample shade, and its trunk is usually straight, with a diameter reaching up to 90 cm.

Bark:

A notable feature of smooth elm is its inner bark, which is reddish-brown in color. This bark is smooth to the touch, contributing to the common name, “smooth elm”. The outer bark presents a contrast with its grayish and furrowed appearance.

Leaves:

The leaves are arranged alternately along the branches. They are “oval” to elliptical in shape with jagged edges. The upper part of the leaves is rough in texture, while the lower part is slightly hairy. Their length varies from 10 to 18 centimeters.

The American elm typically enjoys a lengthy lifespan, frequently spanning 175 to 200 years, with certain trees surpassing 300 years.

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Flowers:

The flowers of the Ulmus are small and inconspicuous, arranged in clusters (Inflorescences). These flowers lack petals and are pollinated by the wind, making them less conspicuous compared to other tree species.

Fruits:

The fruit of the Ulmus is a small, rounded wing, which is essentially a winged seed that facilitates wind dispersal. These wings are attached to the tree in clusters, each containing a single seed.

Habitat:

The red elm typically inhabits moist and rich soils. It shows a preference for bottomlands, moist woodlands, stream banks, and other areas with well-drained soils and access to water.

The species flourishes in habitats that provide consistent moisture and is frequently associated with riparian zones and floodplains.

Uses:

The inner bark possesses mucolytic and soothing properties. Historically, Native American tribes and settlers used it to make tea or poultices for sore throats, coughs, and general discomfort.

The bark was also utilized for various practical applications, such as making baskets and canoes.

Active Ingredients and Mechanism of Action:

Smooth or red elm is celebrated for its medicinal properties, chiefly attributed to the active components found in the inner bark of the stem. The bark contains various compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects.

• Mucilages: The primary active ingredient in slippery elm is its mucilaginous content. Mucilage is a gel-like substance that forms when the inner bark comes into contact with water. This mucus, rich in polysaccharides such as arabinogalactan and xyloglucans, forms a soothing, protective layer along the mucous membranes of the digestive system, respiratory tract, and other internal surfaces.
  Mucilage Mechanism: The mucilaginous material from the elm bark creates a barrier that can help relieve irritation and inflammation. In the digestive system, it offers relief in conditions like gastritis, acid reflux, and inflammatory bowel disease. In the respiratory tract, it helps soothe irritated mucous membranes, making it useful for coughs and sore throats.
• Tannins (Polyphenol): The smooth elm bark also contains tannins, which are astringent compounds. These have the capacity to cause tissue contraction, offering both beneficial and adverse effects. While tannins contribute to some of the therapeutic effects of smooth elm, excessive consumption can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients.
  Tannin Mechanism: Tannins contribute to the astringent and anti-inflammatory properties of smooth elm. They help reduce inflammation and irritation in various body parts, including the digestive and respiratory tracts.
• Antioxidants: Ulmus rubra contains antioxidants, compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage.
  Antioxidant Mechanism: The antioxidants present in the smooth elm bark contribute to its anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective effects. By reducing oxidative stress, these compounds help support and improve overall health.
• Polysaccharides and Phenolic Compounds: The bark of smooth elm contains various other compounds, including polysaccharides and phenolic compounds, which may contribute to its medicinal properties.
  Mechanism of Action: These compounds have been studied for their potential effects on the immune system and their anti-inflammatory properties. They appear to play a role in supporting the body’s natural defense mechanisms and reducing inflammation.

Uses in Traditional Medicine

Ulmus rubra has a rich history of use by Native American tribes and early settlers in North America.

The inner bark of the slippery elm tree contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that becomes slippery when mixed with water, forming the basis of its medicinal applications.

Elms commonly reach heights of 50 to 70 feet, although some varieties can grow to over 100 feet.

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• Indigestion: Smooth elm was traditionally employed to alleviate various digestive system problems. Native Americans used it to prepare a mucilage-rich tea or porridge to soothe stomach aches, indigestion, and ulcers.
• Sore Throat and Cough: Traditionally, smooth elm was a remedy for throat discomfort and cough. Consumed as tea or lozenge, the mucilaginous substance coats the throat and reduces irritation, making it particularly effective for soothing sore throats and treating dry, persistent coughs.
• Skin Diseases: Beyond internal use, smooth elm was applied topically as a remedy for skin issues. Native Americans and settlers used it as a paste or ointment to treat wounds, burns, and skin irritations, utilizing its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties for healing.
• Respiratory Disorders: Ulmus rubra was utilized as an expectorant to alleviate congestion and aid in the removal of phlegm from the respiratory tract. It was also believed to provide relief in conditions such as bronchitis and respiratory infections due to its mucilage content.
• Digestive System Support: The mucilaginous material in red elm is considered beneficial for promoting regular bowel movements and relieving constipation. It is also thought to be helpful in alleviating symptoms of diarrhea by coating the inflamed intestinal lining.
• Nutritional Source: Sometimes, the elm was used as a nutritional source, particularly when prepared as gruel during times of food scarcity or during recovery from illness. The mucus-rich material was easily digestible and provided a gentle source of nourishment.

Conventional Medicinal Uses

Ulmus rubra, while having a long-standing history in traditional medicine, does not have as well-established applications in modern conventional medicine due to a lack of clinical trials and comprehensive scientific research.

However, it is often recommended as a treatment for various conditions such as sore throat[1], cough[2], gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD[3]), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome[4] (IBS), diarrhea[5], wounds, burns, boils, psoriasis, and other skin diseases[6].

Recommended Dosages

Unfortunately, there is no standardized recommended dosage of smooth elm for specific conditions in adults or children as established by regulatory authorities like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other reputable medical organizations.

The doses of herbal medicines can vary based on factors such as the form of administration (e.g., powder, capsule, or tea), the concentration of active compounds, the person’s age and health condition, and the intended use.

In the absence of standardization and comprehensive clinical studies, dosages are often based on traditional use and anecdotal evidence provided by herbalists or alternative medicine practitioners.

Side Effects, Interactions, and Safety:

Smooth or red elm is generally considered safe for most people when used in appropriate amounts. However, like any herbal medicine, it can cause side effects and interact with certain medications.

It is important to remember that individual responses to herbal remedies may vary, so consulting a healthcare professional before using them is important, especially for those with chronic illnesses or who are taking other medications.

Side Effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to Ulmus. Symptoms such as itching, rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing after consuming or using slippery elm products warrant immediate discontinuation of use and seeking medical attention.
• Gastrointestinal Discomfort: In rare cases, slippery elm may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms like bloating or mild indigestion.
• Tannins (Phenolic Polymers): Ulmus contains tannins, which may interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron and calcium. If you have concerns about nutrient absorption, it is advisable to talk to a healthcare professional.

Drug Interactions:

From the roughly 77 million elms present in North America in 1930, more than three-quarters had disappeared by 1989.

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• General Medication Guidelines: The mucilaginous content of smooth elm may impede the absorption of certain medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Therefore, it is recommended to take smooth elm at least one hour before or several hours after other medications to minimize possible interactions.
• Medications to Lower Blood Sugar: There is a theoretical risk that Ulmus rubra may interact with medications designed to lower blood sugar, thereby affecting blood sugar levels. People with diabetes or those taking medications to control blood sugar should consult their doctor before using Ulmus.
• Immunosuppressive Drugs: Due to its potential effects on the immune system, elm may interact with medications that suppress the immune system. Anyone taking immunosuppressive drugs should consult a healthcare expert before using elm.
• Other Medications: As previously mentioned, the tannin content in Ulmus may interfere with the absorption of medications, particularly those containing alkaloids. It is essential to discuss potential interactions with a healthcare professional, especially if undergoing complex medical treatment.
  It is always advisable to inform healthcare providers about any herbal medicine or dietary supplement being taken, including smooth elm, to ensure they are aware of any possible interactions with current medications or individual health conditions.
  Additionally, when purchasing slippery elm products, it’s important to choose reputable sources to ensure the quality and safety of the product.

Bibliography