Ivy - Drainage, Firmness & Respiratory Comfort : Your online pharmacy selection

What is ivy and why is it so widely used in phytotherapy?
Ivy (Hedera helix) is a climbing plant with many medicinal virtues, used since ancient times for its expectorant, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Found in European forests and on many walls and facades, it is particularly appreciated in phytotherapy and cosmetics for its benefits on respiratory health, blood circulation and skin.

Rich in saponins, flavonoids and polyphenols, ivy is a key ingredient in natural remedies for coughs, muscle aches and water retention. It is commonly used as a liquid extract, syrup, oil or cream, depending on the desired effect.

What are the health and well-being benefits of ivy?
Ivy is renowned above all for its expectorant and decongestant properties, making it a natural ally against respiratory ailments. Its saponins stimulate the elimination of mucus and facilitate breathing, which is particularly beneficial in the event of a hacking cough, bronchitis or persistent cold. It is often used in syrup or inhalation form to soothe respiratory tract irritation.

Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties also make it a natural remedy for muscle and joint pain. Applied topically, ivy oil is prized for relieving aches and pains, muscular tension and rheumatic pain. It is also effective for improving blood circulation and reducing the sensation of heavy legs.

Ivy is also used in slimming cosmetics, notably for its draining and decongesting effect. It helps eliminate excess water and is a key active ingredient in anti-cellulite and firming treatments, where it is often combined with other plants such as ground ivy and rockweed.

Finally, thanks to its antifungal and antiseptic properties, it is used to treat certain skin problems such as eczema and skin irritations. It is also used in fortifying shampoos to purify the scalp and regulate sebum production.

How to use ivy every day?
Ivy can be used in a variety of forms, depending on your needs: syrup, infusion, oil, macerate or cream.

As a syrup for respiratory ailments

• Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of ivy syrup 2 to 3 times a day for a hacking cough or bronchitis.
• Combine with honey and thyme for an even more soothing effect.

Inhalation to clear the respiratory tract

• Add a few dried ivy leaves to a bowl of hot water.
• Breathe in the steam for 5 to 10 minutes to help eliminate phlegm.

In oil or macerate to relieve muscular pain

• Mix a few drops of ivy oil with a neutral vegetable oil (arnica, sweet almond).
• Massage into painful areas to relax muscles and improve blood circulation.

As a slimming cream or gel for a draining effect

• Apply an ivy extract-based cream to areas prone to cellulite.
• Massage in circular motions to stimulate circulation and firm skin.

As a shampoo to purify the scalp

• Use ivy shampoo to regulate excess sebum and strengthen hair.
• Combine with essential oils such as rosemary or tea tree for a stronger purifying effect.

Does ivy have any side effects or contraindications?
Although ivy is a natural ingredient with many benefits, it should be used with caution, as certain parts of the plant may be toxic when used internally.

Precautions for use

• Never consume fresh leaves, as they can cause digestive and skin irritations. Only standardized extracts in syrup, infusion or supplement form should be used.
• Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, due to the lack of studies on its safety in these situations.
• Not recommended for children under 6, except on medical advice, particularly for cough syrups.
• Beware of allergic reactions, especially when applied to the skin. Always test on a small area of skin before prolonged use.

How to choose quality ivy?
To reap the full benefits of ivy, it's essential to choose organically grown products, which guarantee the absence of pesticides and contaminants.

• Check the concentration of active ingredients, particularly saponins, to ensure optimum efficacy.
• Choose standardized extracts for safe, effective dosage.
• Opt for natural formulations, without chemical additives or parabens, especially for cosmetics and massage oils.
• Select pharmaceutical-grade syrups, if used for coughs and respiratory ailments.

Ivy is available in pharmacies, organic stores and specialized stores, in the form of syrups, infusions, essential oils, slimming creams and fortifying shampoos.