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Slippery Elm contains bioflavonoids, calcium, mucliage, starch, tannins and vitamin E. Containing high amounts of mucilage and a long chain of sugars called polysaccharides, Slippery Elm eases digestion and works with the body to draw out impurities and toxins assisting with the healing of all body parts. Slippery Elm's coating action soothes the irritated tissues of the intestines, colon, urinary tract and stomach ulcers. Slippery Elm is also benefical in alleviaing inflammation caused by arthritis and soothing sore throats. Slippery Elm grows widely throughout North America, and is also known by the names Red Elm, Moose Elm and Indian Elm. The plant contains mucilage, a long chain of sugars (polysaccharides) that make a slippery substance when combined with water. This mucilage is believed to soothe the digestive system. Slippery elm is also rich in nutrients and is easy to digest, making it an excellent food to replace those that may cause digestive discomfort. It can be made into a gruel for food purposes. In times of famine early American settlers used it as a survival food; it is said George Washington and his troops survived for several days on slippery elm gruel during the bitter winter at Valley Forge.
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