Slippery Elm for Dogs

Main Constituents

• The principal constituent of the bark is the mucilage, similar to that in linseed. It is also rich in vitamins A, B complex, C, and K, calcium, magnesium, and sodium.

Medicinal Activities

• astringent
• anti-inflammatory
• lubricates
• soothes and protects mucous membranes
• nutritive

Common Uses in Dogs

Slippery elm is the ideal herb for treating pets with a nervous stomach. It soothes, lubricates and protects the digestive tract, and it is astringent at the same time. Therefore, it can be used in cases of diarrhea, colitis, stomach ulcers, and so on. It can also be used to soothe sore throats. The herb's astringent and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in soothing and treating a painful cough, such as kennel cough and other types of bronchitis.

In addition, the herb is nutritious and can be fed to older or convalescing pets as a digestive tonic. Here is how to make the tonic:

• Steep one teaspoon of the dried inner bark in 8 ounces of hot water. (One teaspoon of organic yogurt can be added if your pet suffers from constipation)
• Feed the entire mixture to your pet.

Topically, a poultice of slippery elm can be used on wounds, ulcers, boils, or abscesses.

Precautions

Make sure that the outer bark is not used with the inner bark. Not only will the outer bark dramatically change the medicinal nature of the herb, it will also cause irritation to the digestive and urinary tracts.

The inner bark is safe for animals except for rare cases of allergic reactions. However, prolonged use in high dosages is not recommended as it may overcoat the intestinal tract and prevent nutrient absorption.

Availability

Available at herb retailers in various preparations such as tea, tincture, dried and powdered inner bark. References

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).