What to know about Ulmus americana (american elm) before using it medicinally

Ulmus americana, commonly known as American Elm, is a versatile herb that possesses a range of health benefits, from soothing digestive issues to reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.

From an horticultural perspective, this deciduous tree is relatively low-maintenance, tolerant of drought and shade, and often used in urban landscaping for its majestic canopy and autumn foliage. Botanically, Ulmus americana is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves, alternate branching, and a distinctive serrated edge, with its bark featuring deep furrows and grooves.

Historically, American Elm has been documented in various forms of traditional medicine, including in the writings of the Native American healer, Black Robe, who used its bark to treat fever and rheumatism.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Ulmus americana.

What are the medicinal properties of Ulmus americana?

Ulmus americana, also known as American Elm, helps with fever reduction, cough suppression, and wound healing. Its bark and inner bark have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including respiratory issues and skin conditions. The plant's extracts have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active constituents of Ulmus americana, including ulmosides, salicin, and flavonoids, contribute to its medicinal properties. These compounds have been shown to exhibit analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects, making the plant a potential treatment for various health conditions.

The most commonly used parts of Ulmus americana for medicinal purposes are the inner bark, outer bark, and leaves. The inner bark, in particular, is rich in salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which has been used to treat pain and reduce inflammation.

Improper use of Ulmus americana can lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, and increased bleeding risk due to its salicin content. Ingestion of large amounts of the plant's inner bark or leaves may cause digestive issues, including stomach upset and diarrhea.

When using Ulmus americana medicinally, it is essential to follow proper preparation and dosing guidelines. The inner bark should be dried and crushed before use, and the recommended dosage should not exceed 2-3 grams per day. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with bleeding disorders, should consult with a healthcare professional before using the plant.

What are the horticulural aspects of Ulmus americana?

Ulmus americana, also known as American Elm, grow best in moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, with a mature height of 60-80 feet and a spread of 50-60 feet, tolerating a wide range of soil pH and moisture levels.

Planting tips for Ulmus americana involve choosing a location with full sun to partial shade, planting in well-drained soil, and watering regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Space trees 30-50 feet apart to prevent disease spread and consider using a root barrier to prevent invasive growth.

Harvesting tips for Ulmus americana involve pruning branches in late winter or early spring to maintain a single leader and encourage a strong, central stem, and removing diseased or damaged branches to prevent the spread of disease. Prune to maintain a vase-shaped form, with a clear central leader and a broad, rounded crown.

Pests and diseases that commonly affect Ulmus americana include Dutch elm disease, a fungal disease spread by bark beetles, and elm leaf beetles, which feed on foliage and can cause significant damage. Additionally, the tree is susceptible to root rot, caused by excessive moisture and poor soil drainage, and can be susceptible to wind damage due to its vase-shaped form.

What are the botanical aspects of Ulmus americana?

Ulmus americana, also known as American Elm, is a deciduous tree with a broad, vase-shaped crown and a straight, single trunk. Its bark is gray, with a rough, scaly texture, and its leaves are alternate, simple, and doubly serrated. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall.

The taxonomical classification of Ulmus americana is as follows: kingdom Plantae, class Magnoliopsida, order Malpighiales, family Ulmaceae, genus Ulmus, and species U. americana. This classification indicates that the American Elm belongs to the elm family and is a distinct species within the Ulmus genus.

There are several variants of Ulmus americana, including the "Valley Forge" and "Princeton" cultivars, which have been selected for their smaller size and improved disease resistance. The 'Yoshino' cultivar is known for its rapid growth rate and tolerance of urban conditions. Other cultivars have been developed for their unique foliage and branch patterns.

The geographical distribution of Ulmus americana includes eastern and central North America, from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico and from the Atlantic to the Rocky Mountains. It is commonly found in floodplains, bottomlands, and along streams and rivers. The species is also cultivated as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world.

The life cycle of Ulmus americana begins with germination, which occurs when seeds are exposed to light and moisture. Seedlings emerge in spring, and the first year's growth is a single stem with a pair of leaves. Over the next few years, the tree develops a more extensive root system and a larger canopy, eventually reaching maturity at around 50 years of age.

What are the historical aspects of Ulmus americana?

Ulmus americana is a tree species that has been utilized by indigenous peoples for centuries. Its bark was used for medicine, its wood for tool handles, and its leaves for tea. In the early 20th century, its wood was used for furniture making.

In many mythologies, the American Elm is associated with the "Devil's Elm", said to be a favorite haunt of spirits. In some cultures, the tree was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits. In others, its bark was used in rituals to protect against witchcraft.

The American Elm has held significant symbolic meanings across cultures. In some traditions, the tree represents strength, resilience, and flexibility. Its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions has also made it a symbol of hope and perseverance. In some Native American cultures, the tree is considered a sacred symbol of protection and renewal.

Historical texts have documented the use of American Elm by early European settlers. In the 17th and 18th centuries, its bark was used by colonial physicians as a treatment for fever and malaria. In the 19th century, its wood was used for shipbuilding and other large-scale construction projects.

Numerous artifacts made from American Elm have been preserved and exhibited in museums and cultural institutions. A well-preserved log from a 19th-century ship is now on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Similarly, a collection of antique tool handles made from American Elm wood is housed at the New England Museum of Art and History.