
English ivy leaf (Hedera helix)
Native to many parts of Europe, English ivy leaf has a long history of helping to clear mucus, and studies also suggest that it safely helps with cough associated with hoarseness, dry throat, and irritants.1*
Properties and mechanism of action
Ivy leaf contains saponins, flavonoids, and other phenolic compounds, and exhibits respiratory-supporting properties.1* While the exact mechanism of action is not known, the saponins in ivy leaf are believed to help clear mucus from the chest and to induce relaxation of the airway.2* It has also been observed that ivy leaf both widens the bronchi in the lungs and stimulates bronchial glands to secrete fluid.3*
Scientific support
The benefits of ivy leaf extract in improving cough associated with hoarseness, dry throat, and irritants* have been demonstrated in multiple clinical trials involving both adults and children.1,4