Litsea glutinosa vs Slippery Elm

Deciduous tree of South and Southeast Asia, bark and leaves used in Ayurveda and Southeast Asian medicine.

Slippery elm is a tree native to eastern North America whose inner bark produces a mucilaginous gel when mixed with water. It has been used by Native Americans for centuries as a soothing remedy for digestive and respiratory conditions. The FDA has recognized it as a safe and effective oral demulcent.

flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenolic acids

Mucilage polysaccharides, Tannins, Phytosterols, Calcium, Zinc

Traditional Ayurvedic herb for diarrhea and skin conditions, Used in Indian and Malaysian folk medicine for pain and infections

Sore throat soother, Digestive aid, Wound poultice, Cough remedy, Burn treatment

Antidiarrheal, Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing, Antimicrobial

GERD and acid reflux, Irritable bowel syndrome, Sore throat, Inflammatory bowel disease, Cough

Bark tea: 5g per cup 2x/day

400-500mg capsule 3-4 times daily, or 1 tablespoon powder in water 3 times daily

No specific contraindications established

May slow absorption of other medications (take 2 hours apart)

Mild gastrointestinal effects

Allergic reactions (rare), Nausea, Contact dermatitis (bark dust)