herbs - Ivy, Common (Hedera helix)

What is it?

Ivy or common ivy is a well-known evergreen climbing plant that is widely found in the garden. It was a plant held in high esteem by the Ancient Greeks and was used by priests in wedding rituals. Common ivy is native to Europe and should not be confused with its American cousin, 'poison ivy', which as the name suggests is highly toxic. The leaves of common ivy are used in herbal medicine, however traditionally the berries also had medicinal use.

Action

Ivy leaf contains around 5-8% saponins, which are expectorant in action, helping to break up and clear mucous congestion. These saponins appear to have antispasmodic actions (reduces spasms), especially to the bronchial tubes. Ivy also contains low levels of an alkaloid called emetine, which encourages the secretion of mucous from the respiratory tract.

At higher levels, emetine itself is emetic (induces nausea).According to traditional herbalists, ivy is thought to be cathartic (stimulates bowel emptying), diaphoretic (induces sweating), anthelmintic (kills worms), and amoebicidal (destroys amoeba than can cause dysentery).

Uses

Our experts recommend Ivy for the following disorders:

Other information

The respiratory actions of ivy are enhanced when it is combined with other herbs such as thyme, white horehound, and liquorice.
Ivy is most commonly available as a tincture, which can be used 2-3 times daily. Children can be given this herb from the age of 2. A general dosage guide is 1 drop per stone of weight.
Ivy has been used clinically in Europe as a topical application for reducing stretch marks. It is normally combined with horsetail and lady's mantle for this purpose.
Traditional herbalists also used ivy for arthritis, rheumatism and dysentery.
Ivy leaf poultices have been used externally in folklore medicine for swollen glands and chronic leg ulcers.
Topical decoctions of ivy have also been used for scabies, lice and sunburn.

Cautions

• Common ivy is generally free from side effects, however higher than normal intake can cause nausea and vomiting due to the emetine present.



• Ivy should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation, unless otherwise directed by a qualified herbalist.



• When this article was written there were no other well-known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications from using common ivy.

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