Hederacoside

PhytochemicalSaponin

What is it

Hederacoside (most commonly hederacoside C) is a triterpene saponin from English ivy (Hedera helix) leaves. It is the main marker used to standardize ivy leaf extracts sold for cough and bronchitis support.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Productive cough and acute bronchitis

Good Evidence

Multiple controlled studies of standardized ivy leaf extracts, in which hederacoside C is the marker, show symptom improvement in productive cough.

How it works

Hederacoside C is hydrolyzed in the gut to alpha-hederin, which is thought to act on beta-2 adrenergic receptors and reduce mucus viscosity. This combination is the proposed mechanism for ivy leaf extract's expectorant and mild bronchodilator effects. Clinical evidence is strongest for standardized ivy leaf extracts in productive cough and acute bronchitis in children and adults, with several controlled studies showing symptom reduction.

Dosage

DSLD lists products standardized to about 9 mg of hederacoside C per serving. Standardized ivy leaf extracts typically supply enough extract to deliver 5-25 mg hederacoside C per day, depending on age and product.

When and how to take it

Often taken two to three times daily, with or without food. Liquid products are typically dosed by age.

1 commercial form

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

Ivy leaf extract standardized to hederacoside C

Most common form in cough syrups and tablets.

Hydrolyzed to alpha-hederin in the gut

Safety

Standardized ivy leaf extracts are generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal upset and occasional allergic skin reactions. Raw ivy leaves can cause vomiting and irritation; this is not a concern with standardized extracts at recommended doses.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in known ivy allergy. Use cautiously in pregnancy and breastfeeding, as data are limited. In children, use age-appropriate standardized products.

Interactions

No significant drug interactions are well documented for standardized ivy extracts at typical doses.

Frequently asked questions

Is hederacoside C the same as English ivy?⌄

It is the main standardized active compound in English ivy leaf extracts.

Is it safe for children?⌄

Standardized ivy leaf cough preparations are widely used in children in Europe, but follow age-appropriate dosing and consult a pediatrician.

References

Hederacoside on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Hederacoside (PubChem CID 3874518) — PubChem link

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

Research on Hederacoside (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.