1 teaspoon (5ml) of slippery elm powder
1 teaspoon (5ml) of unpasteurized honey
1 cup of organic milk, whole or as desired
dash of cinnamon, if desired
Heat the cup of milk in a saucepan to hot but not boiling.Meanwhile mix thoroughly the powder, honey and cinnamon (if you are using it) in a small bowl. Add 2 or 3 tablespoons of the hot milk (30 to 45ml) to the mixture stirring to thin it. Then pour it into the hot milk in the saucepan and stir until thoroughly blended. Pour into a heavy mug so it stays hot longer and sip slowly consuming the whole amount in about 10 minutes. It will continue to thicken. If the stomach feels irritable hold the hot mug close to the body, placing it over the clothing, so that the warmth penetrates. Or use a warm pack of heated dry rice or a warm hot towel placed over the abdomen.
Substitutions. Unpasteurized honey is preferred because the enzymes and antibiotic action are largely intact. Sugar should not be used. A natural organic syrup such as pure maple syrup can be substituted but doesn’t have the same action as the honey.
This gruel is nourishing and comforting and suitable for all ages. It can be given to animals as well as humans and is especially useful for small children, the elderly and frail, or those who are not eating as they need to stay healthy. When recovering from illness this gruel can be given as a meal substitute until the individual can tolerate solid food.
It has been used as a survival food by many ancient people in which case it is mixed with hot water instead of the milk, with or without honey.
Store the slippery elm powder in a container that keeps out moisture and light, in a cool place. It is preferable to store it in the original foil packet it comes in if bought in bulk. The shelf life, once the sealed packet is opened, is up to three years if kept cool, dark and dry.
