Can you take slippery elm long term

However, for the common capsule formulation, to mg 3 to 4 times daily for up to 8 weeks is considered minimal. For conditions of a chronic nature, such as ulcerative colitis, long-term use will be necessary. Slippery elm appears to be a benign supplement with adequate research to support its use for many gastrointestinal complaints. Although its use alone may not be sufficient for serious conditions such as ulcerative colitis, its lack of drug interactions makes it a very attractive add-on therapy when additional symptom management is needed.

From the May 01, Issue of Clinical Advisor. Show More. Login Register. This article will look at why people have used slippery elm traditionally and why many people continue to use it today. It will also explain the different forms of slippery elm and the potential risks associated with it. According to a study , people living in North America have used slippery elm for several centuries in traditional medicine. Native Americans used slippery elm both topically and internally to help treat conditions such as:.

Many people in various communities continue to use slippery elm for these conditions. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.

There are several potential uses of slippery elm that are well documented by companies and in the media. Instead, there are only anecdotal accounts of the benefits of slippery elm as a treatment for certain health conditions. Instead, a person should follow the recommendations of the American Heart Association AHA and lower their blood pressure by:. Learn how to lower blood pressure safely and naturally here. There is limited evidence that slippery elm can help ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome IBS , such as diarrhea and constipation.

In a review , the researcher stated that slippery elm could help reduce symptoms of IBS. However, the researcher called for more studies to confirm this. These changes may include:. Learn more about how to treat IBS safely here. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care provider. Slippery elm is not known to have serious side effects.

Because it coats the digestive tract, it may slow down the absorption of other drugs or herbs. You should take slippery elm 2 hours before or after other herbs or medications you may be taking. Some scientists think slippery elm is safe in pregnancy and during breastfeeding, but no scientific studies have been done to confirm this. The outer bark of the elm tree may contain substances that could increase the risk of miscarriage, so sometimes pregnant women are advised to avoid slippery elm.

There is some folk herbal history that Slippery elm may cause miscarriage, however, it is unclear whether this refers to the practice of inserting Slippery elm preparation vaginally or taking the herb orally. DO NOT take any herbal supplements when pregnant or breastfeeding unless you're under a provider's supervision.

There are no scientific reports of slippery elm interacting with any other medications, although it may slow down the absorption of other drugs or herbs see " Precautions " section. Bock S. Integrative medical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. These are available over the counter or by prescription only depending on the strength of the medication.

If you decide to try this natural remedy, read the product labels thoroughly and watch for unusual ingredients. The dosage varies depending on the form of slippery elm. It may interfere with other medications.

Slippery elm is a tree native to the central and eastern United States, and its bark may be able to soothe a number of symptoms. Learn more about acid reflux, a condition that occurs when stomach acids back up into the esophagus through the lower esophageal sphincter. When left untreated, silent reflux, also known as laryngopharyngeal reflux LPR can cause damage to your esophagus, throat, and voice box.

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Do you deal with heartburn more than twice a week? You could be dealing with GERD. Learn what causes it, and what treatment options are available. Numerous over-the-counter medications can help treat GERD, or heartburn. Learn more about your options for treating GERD and when you should see a…. Acid reflux happens when your stomach contents rise into your esophagus.

Learn which foods you should avoid to prevent reflux. Acid reflux and GERD can cause serious health issues, and a host of symptoms you might not normally connect to you gastrointestinal health — like….