Slippery elm is an old folk remedy used for many ailments, including skin irritations. Slippery elm powder is a skin-soothing alternative to talc-based baby powders. The use of slippery elm as a baby powder has not been well studied, but the University of Maryland Medical Center states "it is generally considered to be safe" for use on children. In fact, slippery elm baby powder seems to be a safer choice than traditional talc baby powder. Researchers at Southampton General Hospital warned in the BMJ Journal that "talcum powder can cause severe respiratory symptoms in infants; its use should be discouraged."
Step 1
Cleanse your baby's skin with a wet washcloth or a baby wipe. Pat the skin dry with a clean, dry washcloth after cleansing or let the skin air dry.
Step 2
Pour about one tablespoon of slippery elm powder in the palm of your hand. Gently pat the slippery elm powder onto your baby's skin.
Step 3
Reapply the slippery elm powder as often as desired.
Tips and Warnings
- Slippery elm powder turns to a brown gel-like substance when it gets wet. The slippery elm gel is soothing to the skin. If you desire a more traditional colored and textured baby powder, combine equal amounts of corn starch and slippery elm together.
- Slippery elm is made from the inner bark of the elm tree. The outer bark of the elm tree may be harmful to pregnant women. Slippery elm powder should not contain the outer bark, but as a safety precaution, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises pregnant women not to handle slippery elm.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloths
- Baby wipes
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Slippery Elm
- "BMJ 302(6786)"; Inhalation of Baby Powder: An Unappreciated Hazard; Southampton General Hospital; P W Pairaudeau, R G Wilson, M A Hall, and M Milne; May 18, 1991
- "Herbs and Natural Supplements: An Evidence Based Guide, 2nd Edition"; Lesley Braun, Mark Cohen; 2005
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