Slippery elm is a medicinal supplement that helps some people with acid reflux, but research on its efficacy is limited. However, if medications aren’t managing your symptoms, you might want to try it.
If prescription or over-the-counter medications aren’t relieving your acid reflux symptoms, you might want to try alternative remedies.
Some people believe this naturally derived supplement coats the esophagus and stomach to relieve discomfort. However, research on slippery elm is limited, so it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor before giving it a try.
Read on to learn more about using slippery elm for acid reflux.
The slippery elm tree is native to North America. People use the inner bark for medicinal purposes. It contains a substance called “mucilage,” and when mixed with water it becomes a gel.
This gel can coat different parts of the body and may provide relief from some conditions. For example, it can help coat and soothe inflamed tissues in the gastrointestinal tract, which could be useful if you have acid reflux.
It can also help stimulate more mucus production in the intestines. This can help protect against ulcers and extra acidity.
However, research on slippery elm is limited. According to one
If you want to try slippery elm, a variety of nutritional supplements are available. You can try capsules, lozenges, or powder.
If you’re taking powdered bark, a typical dosage is about 1 tablespoon up to 3 times per day. You can mix it with tea or water.
However, adding too much slippery elm to the water may cause it to become too thick to ingest. You can add sugar and honey to the drink to make it more palatable.
Be sure to read the directions on any slippery elm product that you wish to use. If you’re ever unsure of how much slippery elm to take, speak with your doctor. They can help you determine the correct dosage.
It’s also a good idea to speak with your doctor before trying any new medications or supplements.
Most people can take slippery elm without having any issues. It’s classified as
However, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate supplements. This means that the contents of each brand of slippery elm may vary. Be sure to read the label of any product you purchase closely.
Because slippery elm coats the digestive tract, it may slow the absorption of certain nutrients or medications. If you’re taking other medications, speak with your doctor before trying slippery elm.
If you experience any side effects or discomfort after taking slippery elm, you should stop using it and call your doctor.
Although research on slippery elm is limited, it might help some of your acid reflux symptoms.
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.
You should let your doctor know that you’re using slippery elm to treat your acid reflux. They can ensure that the bark won’t interfere with any other medications that you may be taking.
