English Ivy
Hedera helix
Hedera helix, commonly known as English ivy, has a long-standing tradition in European folklore and herbal medicine. It is traditionally used for respiratory ailments such as coughs and bronchitis, though specific traditional uses are not extensively documented. Scientific evidence suggests that an herbal mouthwash derived from Hedera helix may be beneficial for gingivitis, showing effects comparable to chlorhexidine. Additionally, ivy leaf extract combined with chitosan has shown promise in mitigating certain toxicities associated with pesticides like deltamethrin by modulating miR-144 and restoring antioxidant defenses. AG NPP709, a formulation containing Hedera helix, demonstrated non-inferior clinical improvement rates to ivy leaf extract for respiratory symptoms. Safety records indicate no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no known drug interactions associated with Hedera helix.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The herbal mouthwash derived from Pedicough syrup showed beneficial effects on clinical periodontal parameters similar to chlorhexidine in patients with gingivitis.
- Moss increased surface temperatures in direct sunlight by an average of +1.5°C to +4.1°C compared to bare mortar.
- The combination of chitosan and ivy leaf extract mitigated deltamethrin-induced hepatorenal and reproductive toxicity by modulating miR-144 and restoring antioxidant defenses.
- AG NPP709, compared to ivy leaf extract, showed non-inferior clinical improvement rates in patients with respiratory symptoms.
- Sufficient evidence suggests that several plant-derived agents, including Hedera helix, may reduce the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections, though more research is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is English Ivy?
English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about English Ivy?
5 sourced findings are recorded for English Ivy; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The herbal mouthwash derived from Pedicough syrup showed beneficial effects on clinical periodontal parameters similar to chlorhexidine in patients with gingivitis.
How strong is the evidence for English Ivy?
The strongest finding for English Ivy carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is English Ivy safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for English Ivy in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does English Ivy interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for English Ivy in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of English Ivy?
English Ivy is also known as: Плющ обыкновенный, lierre grimpant.
Is English Ivy a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter, Phase 3 Study of AG NPP709 Compared With Ivy Leaf Extract in Patients With Acute or Chronic Respiratory Symptoms. literature abstract metadata
- T2 How moss affects urban temperatures: The effects of moss on the thermal dynamics of an urban cementitious surface. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Combined Chitosan and Ivy Leaf Extract Mitigate Deltamethrin-Induced Hepatorenal and Reproductive Toxicity via miR-144 Antioxidant Signaling. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A Review of the Properties of Clinically Evaluated Plant-Derived Agents in the Treatment of Respiratory Infections. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effect of an Herbal Mouthwash Derived from Pedicough Syrup on Plaque, Gingival and Bleeding Indices in Patients with Gingivitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. literature abstract metadata