Slippery Elm Bark

[Dora]

I just ran across a post in the Energy forum on the harvesting of slippery elm bark, and I thought it would be relevant to us here.

The original post: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=115x63347

Link to original article: http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/nat-gen/2006/aug/09/080909022.html

snip:

The 20-foot tree stands half naked, much of the bark stripped from its trunk. It has only months to live.

"It doesn't know it's dead," says U.S. Forest Service botanist David Taylor, pointing to the healthy leaves overhead.

This slippery elm has fallen victim to thieves who tore off its bark for profit in the lucrative and burgeoning herbal-remedy market.

The gummy lining of the bark has long been used in North America, and especially Appalachia, as a soothing agent for coughs, gastrointestinal ailments and skin irritations. But now, slippery elm and other herbal products that were once used seasonally by locals are in demand by millions.

....

Since the wood has no commercial value, the stripped trees are left to die. About a dozen trees face that fate for each 50-pound sack of bark, which can fetch $150 if the stuff is dry.

[GardeningGal]

1. That is disturbing.

I had no idea that was happening. Good to know.

[Cleita]

2. Uneducated fools. They could take some of the bark, but

they have to leave enough so the bark can deliver water and nutrients to the tree. It will then repair the bark that was stripped in time. It's too bad.

[rumpel]

3. Blind greed.

I will send healing light to the tree, and if that is not accepted, I will send my apologies

[Metta]

4. Ginger root works as well or better for coughs, etc.

Either a thin slice of fresh root which you suck on or a small chunk of dried root. Organic is better, of course.