Herbal Tooth & Gum Powder, 2oz
32,00 AUD
A gentle, soothing herb with a rich history.
Love a soothing herbal tradition? Did you know the inner bark of the slippery elm tree holds mucilage, a soft gel-like substance behind its gentle reputation? Give this old favourite a try.
Slippery elm is a tree native to North America. The inner bark contains a soft, gel-like substance called mucilage, which turns thick and slippery when mixed with water. Native American peoples and later herbalists used it to soothe the throat and the digestive tract. Today it is found as powders, capsules and lozenges, and remains a go-to herb for gentle, everyday digestive comfort.
Delivery: Usually arrives within 3 days to 2 weeks.
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Benefits & common uses
Benefits
- Traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to soothe and protect the digestive tract.
- Traditionally used to relieve the discomfort of a dry or sore throat.
- May help soothe occasional stomach upset and heartburn-like discomfort.
- Traditionally used as a demulcent, to coat and soothe mucous membranes.
- May help support gentle bowel regularity.
- Traditionally used to relieve mild cough.
What people commonly use it for
- Sore, scratchy throat (Traditional use as a demulcent in lozenges and teas)
- Occasional heartburn and indigestion (Traditional use; limited clinical research)
- Mild stomach upset (Traditional use)
- Occasional constipation (Early research only; the mucilage adds bulk and softness)
- Bloating and digestive sensitivity (Early research only)
Suggested to use alongside
- Marshmallow root: Another traditional soothing herb for the digestive tract
- Probiotic: Supports friendly gut bacteria
- Aloe vera juice: Traditionally used to support digestive comfort
The science behind it
Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) inner bark is rich in mucilage, a complex mix of polysaccharides made of sugars such as galactose, rhamnose and galacturonic acid. When mixed with water, these long molecules swell and form a viscous gel.
Demulcent action. A demulcent is a substance that forms a soothing, protective film over irritated mucous membranes. In the throat, the gel coats the surface and helps reduce the scratchy feeling. In the gut, the mucilage is thought to create a protective layer over the stomach and intestinal lining.
Fibre-like effects. The mucilage is only partly digested, and acts similarly to soluble fibre. It holds water in the bowel and can help soften stools. It also provides food for some gut bacteria.
Research. Clinical research on slippery elm is limited. One small trial of a herbal blend including slippery elm found improved bowel regularity (Hawrelak and Myers, Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010). Its place in the medicine chest comes largely from long traditional use in Western herbal medicine.
Because the gel can coat the gut, it may slow the absorption of other substances taken at the same time.
Product details & ingredients
- Size: 2oz
- Form: Powder
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Toothbrush full
Servings Per Container: Varied
Amount per Serving: %Daily Value
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
Supplier ref: Herbal Tooth & Gum Powder, 2 Oz
Common questions
What is slippery elm good for?
Slippery elm is traditionally used to soothe the throat and digestive tract. Its gel-like mucilage coats and protects mucous membranes.
How do I take slippery elm powder?
Mix a small amount of powder into warm water or a smoothie and stir well. Drink it promptly before it thickens.
When is the best time to take slippery elm?
Many people take it between meals or before bed. Keep it at least an hour from medicines.
Is slippery elm the same as marshmallow root?
They are different plants, but both are rich in mucilage and used in similar ways. Some products combine them.
How long does slippery elm take to work?
Throat comfort can be felt quickly, within minutes. Digestive support may take a few days of regular use.
Is slippery elm safe to use long term?
It is a gentle, food-like herb and is traditionally well tolerated. Ask your health professional if you plan to use it continuously.
Safety
Take with plenty of water and separate from medicines by at least one to two hours, as the mucilage may slow their absorption. Use caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Stop if you develop a rash or other allergic reaction.
About the maker
This product comes from a smaller independent supplier. Supporting small and family-owned makers is a big part of what we do.
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