Ivy leaf
EMA Well-Established Use monograph for productive cough, the leading paediatric herbal expectorant in Europe.
Why
Ivy leaf (Hedera helix) extract holds an EMA Well-Established Use monograph for productive cough, the higher regulatory tier requiring bibliographic evidence of clinical efficacy. The standardised extract EA 575 (Prospan) is one of the most-prescribed herbal expectorants in German and European paediatric practice. RCTs in children with acute bronchitis report symptom improvement comparable to ambroxol.
How it works
Saponins (hederagenin, α-hederin) reduce bronchial mucus viscosity and stimulate β2-adrenoceptor signalling in airway smooth muscle, producing mild bronchodilation and mucolytic effect without the dry-cough adverse effect of suppressants.
Expected onset · Symptom improvement often within 4–7 days
How to take
Dosage
EA 575 syrup: paediatric doses banded by age (e.g. 2.5 ml 3 times daily for ages 1–5). Adult dose: 5–7.5 ml three times daily. Dry extract tablets: 35 mg twice daily.
Timing
Three times daily during symptomatic phase
On the label
EA 575 (Prospan) or extracts standardised to '5–7.5:1 ethanol extract' or with stated hederacoside C content. Generic ivy syrups vary widely.
Ideal for
Adults and children (typically aged 1+ depending on local product) with productive cough associated with acute bronchitis or upper respiratory tract infection.
Safety
Evidence
EMA HMPC classifies ivy leaf extract as Well-Established Use for productive cough, the higher regulatory tier for botanicals, requiring bibliographic evidence of clinical efficacy. Holzinger 2011 systematic review of 10 trials (n>17,000 children): symptom improvement comparable to ambroxol, favourable safety profile. The dominant herbal expectorant in European paediatrics.
Where to get it
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