Ulmus Rubra: Complete Medicinal Profile

Ulmus rubra, also known as the slippery elm, is a plant species native to North America, characterized by its deciduous leaves and red or yellow bark.

The medicinal properties of Ulmus rubra lie in its inner bark, which contains mucilages that provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.

The health benefits of using Ulmus rubra include alleviating digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, soothing coughs and sore throats, and reducing symptoms of menopause.

Ulmus rubra can be prepared into herbal teas, tinctures, capsules, and lozenges, making it a versatile remedy for various ailments.

This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Ulmus rubra.

Uses and Benefits

Ulmus rubra is used to treat a variety of health issues due to its numerous benefits.

It has been traditionally used to reduce fever, alleviate sore throats, and ease digestive problems, making it a valuable resource for maintaining overall health.

The plant has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and ease pain associated with conditions such as arthritis and sprains.

By incorporating Ulmus rubra into one's wellness routine, individuals can experience a range of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced blood pressure, and enhanced immune function.

The health benefits of Ulmus rubra are listed below.

• Air purification: Ulmus rubra helps to purify the air by releasing oxygen and absorbing pollutants, contributing to a healthier environment.
• Soil erosion prevention: Its deep roots and strong branches help to hold the soil in place, preventing erosion and landslides.
• Habitat creation: Ulmus rubra provides a habitat for various wildlife, such as birds, insects, and small mammals, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
• Stormwater management: Its extensive root system allows it to absorb and filter stormwater, reducing runoff and alleviating pressure on urban drainage systems.
• Noise reduction: The dense foliage of ulmus rubra acts as a natural sound barrier, reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful environment.
• Shade provision: Its broad canopy provides shade, offering relief from the sun's heat and creating a cooler microclimate.
• Carbon sequestration: Ulmus rubra absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change.

Here are the best health benefits of Ulmus rubra.

Actions

Ulmus rubra has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties, which exert their effects on the cardiovascular system, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and modulating the immune response to improve overall cardiovascular health.

This plant also exhibits adaptogenic, nervine, and anxiolytic actions, influencing the nervous system to enhance stress resilience, regulate emotional balance, and promote relaxation.

Additionally, Ulmus rubra displays anti-diarrheal, antispasmodic, and anti-ulcerative properties, affecting the gastrointestinal system to alleviate digestive issues, calm muscle spasms, and protect the mucosal lining.

Furthermore, it possesses antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and antiviral actions, impacting the respiratory and integumentary systems to combat infections and promote wound healing.

The therapeutic actions of Ulmus rubra are listed below.

• Demulcent: Ulmus rubra has demulcent properties, which help to soothe and protect irritated or inflamed tissues, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
• Anti-inflammatory: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the body.
• Antiseptic: Ulmus rubra has antiseptic properties, which help to prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, promoting a clean and healthy environment.
• Antipyretic: The plant has antipyretic properties, which help to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms associated with fever, such as headaches and fatigue.
• Astringent: Ulmus rubra has astringent properties, which help to constrict and tighten tissues, reducing bleeding and promoting wound healing.
• Antioxidant: The plant has antioxidant properties, which help to protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall health and well-being.
• Immune stimulant: Ulmus rubra has immune stimulant properties, which help to boost the immune system and protect the body against infections and diseases.

Constituents

Ulmus rubra has been found to contain a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Tannins, including gallic acid and ellagic acid, have been identified in the plant, showcasing their antimicrobial and astringent properties.

Other notable bioactive constituents include phenolic acids like protocatechuic acid and caffeic acid, which display antioxidant and anti-cancer activities.

Additionally, Ulmus rubra contains terpenoids, alkaloids, and saponins, such as ursolic acid, berberine, and oleanolic acid, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-proliferative properties.

The bioactive constituents of Ulmus rubra are listed below.

• Tannins: A type of polyphenol that gives plants their astringent properties and is responsible for the astringent taste of the ulmus rubra plant.
• Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds that have antioxidant properties and are found in the leaves and bark of the ulmus rubra plant.
• Saponins: A type of glycoside that has soap-like properties and can be found in the roots and bark of the ulmus rubra plant.
• Phenolic acids: A class of compounds that are found in the leaves and bark of the ulmus rubra plant and have antioxidant properties.
• Glycosides: A type of compound that is composed of a sugar molecule and a non-sugar molecule and is found in the roots and bark of the ulmus rubra plant.
• Lignans: A type of polyphenol that is found in the bark and wood of the ulmus rubra plant and has antioxidant properties.
• Coumarins: A type of compound that is found in the bark and leaves of the ulmus rubra plant and has anticoagulant properties.

Parts

The most commonly used parts of Ulmus rubra are the inner bark, roots, and leaves.

The inner bark is used to make a tea that can help alleviate symptoms of fever, diarrhea, and sore throats, as well as being used as a treatment for skin conditions like eczema and acne.

The roots of Ulmus rubra are utilized to create a decoction that is effective in treating digestive issues such as constipation and nausea, and also serves as an antiseptic to aid in wound healing.

The leaves of the plant are used in a variety of applications, including being made into a poultice to treat sore muscles and joints, and also being used as a treatment for respiratory issues like bronchitis and asthma.

The following table displays the most used parts of of Ulmus rubra and examples of ailments they help cure.

Preparations

Ulmus rubra most common herbal preparations are used for various health purposes, including the infusion of its leaves and bark, which is consumed as a tea to aid in digestion, lower blood pressure, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

The bark of the Ulmus rubra plant is also used to prepare a decoction, which is used to treat fever, sore throats, and respiratory issues such as bronchitis and coughs.

Additionally, a tincture made from the root of Ulmus rubra is used to treat digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea, as well as to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain.

The sap of the Ulmus rubra plant is also used to prepare a topical salve, which is applied to the skin to treat wounds, burns, and skin irritations, while its leaves are used to make a poultice to draw out infections and reduce inflammation.

The herbal preparations of Ulmus rubra are listed below.

• Ulmus rubra bark infusion: A soothing infusion made from the bark of the ulmus rubra plant, traditionally used to calm digestive issues and reduce inflammation.
• Ulmus rubra leaf tincture: A concentrated tincture extracted from the leaves of the ulmus rubra plant, used to support immune function and reduce fever.
• Ulmus rubra root decoction: A nourishing decoction made from the roots of the ulmus rubra plant, traditionally used to soothe respiratory issues and promote relaxation.
• Ulmus rubra flower tea: A delicate tea made from the flowers of the ulmus rubra plant, used to calm anxiety and promote a restful sleep.
• Ulmus rubra leaf salve: A topical salve made from the leaves of the ulmus rubra plant, used to soothe skin irritations and promote wound healing.
• Ulmus rubra bark capsules: Capsules filled with dried and powdered ulmus rubra bark, traditionally used to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
• Ulmus rubra infused oil: A rich infused oil made from the leaves and flowers of the ulmus rubra plant, used to soothe skin irritations and promote relaxation.

Side Effects

Ulmus rubra side effects are typically associated with gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as cardiovascular problems such as rapid heartbeat, palpitations, and low blood pressure.

People who are most likely to experience these side effects are those with pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, arrhythmia, or gastrointestinal disorders, as well as the elderly and young children.

In addition to these symptoms, the consumption of Ulmus rubra can also lead to allergic reactions like hives, itching, and swelling, as well as more severe side effects such as seizures, tremors, and respiratory failure.

To minimize the risk of these side effects, individuals should avoid consuming Ulmus rubra in large quantities, especially if they have a history of sensitivities or allergies.

The possible side effects of Ulmus rubra are listed below.

• Allergic contact dermatitis: A skin reaction that occurs when the plant's sap comes into contact with the skin, causing redness, itching, and rashes.
• Eye irritation: Irritation and inflammation of the eyes, which can be caused by the plant's sap or pollen entering the eyes.
• Respiratory problems: Difficulty breathing or other respiratory issues that can be caused by inhaling the plant's pollen or sap.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Stomach problems, nausea, or vomiting that can be caused by ingesting the plant's sap or other parts.
• Skin inflammation: Redness, swelling, and inflammation of the skin that can be caused by the plant's sap or other parts.
• Cardiovascular issues: Cardiovascular problems, such as increased heart rate or blood pressure, that can be caused by ingesting the plant's sap or other parts.
• Seizures and coma: In rare cases, the plant's sap or other parts can cause seizures and even coma if ingested in large quantities.