English Ivy

Botanical

What is it

English ivy (Hedera helix) is an evergreen climbing plant whose leaf extract is used in European herbal medicine, particularly for cough and bronchitis. Standardized dry extracts (e.g., EA 575) are approved as expectorant medications in some European countries.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Cough / bronchitis

Good Evidence

Multiple RCTs of standardized ivy leaf extract show reduction in cough severity and improved expectoration in children and adults. Approved as medicinal in Germany and other EU countries.

How it works

Hedera helix leaf contains triterpene saponins (hederasaponins, hederacoside C). These act as expectorants by stimulating bronchial secretions, thinning mucus, and exerting bronchodilator effects via beta-2 receptor mechanisms. Several controlled trials in children and adults with acute and chronic bronchitis show benefits in cough reduction and mucus clearance with standardized leaf extracts. It is one of the better-studied herbal expectorants.

Dosage

Standardized dry extract (EA 575): typically 7-25 mg leaf extract twice daily (children) or 30 mg leaf extract twice daily (adults), depending on product.

When and how to take it

Take twice daily with water. Adherence over a few days for acute respiratory symptoms is the typical pattern.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Standardized leaf dry extract (e.g., EA 575)

Available as syrup, drops, and tablets in pharmacies in many European countries.

Standardized to saponin content.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Possible GI upset (nausea, diarrhea), allergic reactions. Fresh ivy leaves and berries are toxic; only use prepared, standardized extracts. Topical contact can cause dermatitis.

Who should be cautious

Avoid if allergic to plants in the Araliaceae family. Limited safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding; consult clinician. Do not use raw ivy parts.

Interactions

No major drug interactions reported with standardized extracts at recommended doses.

Food sources

Not a food source (raw plant is toxic)

Amount
N/A
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is English ivy safe for children?⌄

Standardized leaf extract has been studied in children for cough/bronchitis and is widely used in pediatric practice in Europe. Use only product-labeled pediatric doses.

Can I make tea from my garden ivy?⌄

No. Raw ivy contains compounds that are toxic. Use only prepared, standardized pharmaceutical or supplement products.

References

English Ivy on Wikidata — Wikidata link

English Ivy on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on English Ivy (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.