As acaring pet parent, it's essential to consider natural remedies that can improve your furry friend's digestive health. Two popular supplements in the canine world are Slippery Elm Bark Powder and Marshmallow Root Powder. These natural remedies have been used for centuries to promote overall wellness in dogs.
Slippery Elm Bark Powder
Slippery Elm Bark Powder is derived from the inner bark of the Slippery Elm tree, a species native to North America. This powder has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to soothe digestive issues, sore throat, and skin irritation. Slippery Elm Bark Powder is known for its high mucilage content. Mucilage is a gel-like substance that becomes slippery and viscous when mixed with water. It is this mucilage that gives Slippery Elm Bark Powder its healing properties.
When consumed, Slippery Elm Bark Powder can coat the digestive tract and help reduce inflammation. It can soothe an upset stomach, alleviate diarrhea, and ease constipation. Slippery Elm Bark Powder can also be applied topically to help alleviate skin irritation and promote wound healing. Additionally, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help boost the immune system and fight off disease.
Slippery Elm Bark Powder is particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from surgery or illness. It can also help boost their overall immune system, leading to improved health and vitality.
Marshmallow Root Powder
Marshmallow Root Powder, on the other hand, is derived from the root of the Marshmallow plant. This plant is native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Marshmallow Root Powder contains a high amount of mucilage, similar to Slippery Elm Bark Powder.
When consumed, Marshmallow Root Powder can soothe and protect the digestive tract. It can help alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and ulcers. Marshmallow Root Powder is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Marshmallow Root Powder is particularly beneficial for dogs with chronic digestive issues or those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. It can help alleviate their symptoms, leading to a better quality of life for them.
Slippery Elm Bark Powder vs Marshmallow Root Powder
While Slippery Elm Bark Powder and Marshmallow Root Powder have similar properties due to their high mucilage content, there are some key differences between the two. Slippery Elm Bark Powder is better suited for addressing issues with the digestive tract, such as diarrhea and constipation. Marshmallow Root Powder, on the other hand, is better suited for alleviating symptoms associated with inflammation, such as GERD and IBS.
Sustainability of Slippery Elm Bark and Marshmallow Root
It's important to note the sustainability of the sources of Slippery Elm Bark and Marshmallow Root when considering their use as supplements. Slippery Elm Bark has historically been over-harvested, leading to a decline in the population of Slippery Elm trees. However, efforts are being made to ensure the sustainability of Slippery Elm Bark harvesting, such as selective harvesting methods and replanting programs.
Similarly, Marshmallow Root has also been over-harvested in the past, leading to a decline in the plant's population. However, sustainable harvesting practices, such as allowing the plant to fully mature before harvesting and replanting programs, are now being implemented.
At North Hound Life, we take sustainability seriously, and we ensure that our suppliers use ethical and sustainable harvesting methods for our Slippery Elm Bark Powder and Marshmallow Root Powder.
FAQs
Slippery Elm Bark Powder is better suited for addressing issues with the digestive tract, such as diarrhea and constipation. Marshmallow Root Powder, on the other hand, is better suited for alleviating symptoms associated with inflammation, such as GERD and IBS.
Is marshmallow root better than slippery elm? ›
Conclusion: In summary, marshmallow root emerges as the top choice for us here in Ireland and the UK, offering local accessibility, sustainable sourcing, and a plethora of health benefits. Incorporate this herbal gem into your wellness routine and experience its soothing wonders firsthand.
Can you mix marshmallow root and slippery elm together? ›
The slippery elm and marshmallow can be taken concurrently (at least on alternate days).
What is a good substitute for slippery elm? ›
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), Comfrey (Symphytum spp.), and Mullein (Verbascum spp.) have been suggested by herbalists as potential alternatives for slippery elm bark.
Does marshmallow root heal leaky gut? ›
Helps Repair the Gut Lining, Preventing Leaky Gut Syndrome
In addition, it seems to be beneficial for other forms of inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
What are the disadvantages of marshmallow root? ›
Marshmallow root has no officially reported side effects besides rare allergic reactions. 9 However, anecdotal reports show taking the supplement may cause upset stomach and dizziness.
Who should not take slippery elm bark? ›
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.
Who Cannot take marshmallow root? ›
Talk to your doctor if you're taking other medications before starting marshmallow root, as it's been found to interact with lithium and diabetes drugs. It can also coat the stomach and interfere with absorption of other medications. Avoid use if you: are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What can you not mix with marshmallow root? ›
Possible Interactions
- Lithium. Marshmallow may increase the amount of lithium in the body, thereby increasing the risk of side effects.
- Diabetes drugs. Marshmallow may decrease blood sugar. Taking diabetes medications along with marshmallow may result in your blood sugar going too low.
When mixed with water, the mucilage forms a thick gel that coats the throat and the intestinal lining. This makes it a perfect remedy for the symptoms of chronic GI problems such as using slippery elm for leaky gut syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Most people can take slippery elm without having any issues. It's classified as generally accepted as safe (GRAS) , which means it's unlikely to cause any issues or side effects. However, the Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate supplements.
What does slippery elm bark do to the body? ›
When consumed, Slippery Elm Bark Powder can coat the digestive tract and help reduce inflammation. It can soothe an upset stomach, alleviate diarrhea, and ease constipation. Slippery Elm Bark Powder can also be applied topically to help alleviate skin irritation and promote wound healing.
Is it OK to take marshmallow root everyday? ›
Use and Safety: No more than three cups a day, as too much marshmallow root can cause excessive vomiting or nausea. Always remember that herbal medicine is still medicine, so it should be treated with care and caution.
What is the #1 substance to help heal the gut? ›
Glutamine. Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that may have beneficial effects on the gut. A 2021 research review in Food Science and Human Wellness suggests glutamine might support the gut microbiome, modulate inflammatory responses and promote the integrity of the gut mucosal wall.
Does marshmallow root break up mucus? ›
Marshmallow Root contains powerful properties that help break up mucus, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria. naturally. Marshmallow Root is more than 11% mucilage. Mucilage is a slippery gel-like substance which is soothing to ailments like sore throats, dry coughs, stomach ulcers, bronchitis and tonsillitis.
Does slippery elm heal the gut? ›
The inner bark contains chemicals that can increase mucous secretion, which might be helpful for stomach and intestinal problems. People use slippery elm for sore throat, constipation, stomach ulcers, skin disorders, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
What are the benefits of marshmallow root? ›
It has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy. The most-studied benefits of marshmallow root have been in treating respiratory and digestive tract symptoms and in skin health and wound repair.
What is slippery elm best for? ›
Slippery elm supplements have been traditionally used to soothe sore throats and coughs. They may also help with digestive issues such as heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation. Slippery elm can also act as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
