Acute cough arising from viral upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and bronchitis comes as a common reason for patients to seek medical care. Ivy leaf extracts are non-antibiotic over-the-counter cough medications that are popular among people as a home remedy or self-care regimen, but their efficacy is uncertain. 

Researchers recently updated a previous systematic reviewand evaluated the effectiveness and tolerability of ivy leaf in adult and pediatric populations for the treatment of acute URTIs.

The researchers searched the reliable sources and included the randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), and observational studies (OSs) investigating ivy leaf mono- or combination preparations. 

The observations of the study were as follows-

• Six RCTs, 1 CCT, and 4 OSs passed the eligibility criteria.
• A recent increase in RCTs was noted
• All studies concluded ivy leaf extract to be an effective and safe option for the treatment of cough due to URTIs and bronchitis.
• Rapid reduction in cough severity and/or frequency was observed in 3 RCTs utilizing ivy leaf treatment.
• No serious adverse effects were reported. 

It was concluded that the ivy leaf preparations are safe for use in cough due to acute URTIs and bronchitis. However, the clinical importance of the effects is uncertain.

Source: Sierocinski E, Holzinger F, Chenot JF. Ivy leaf (Hedera helix) for acute upper respiratory tract infections: an updated systematic review. Eur J ClinPharmacol. 2021;77(8):1113-1122. doi:10.1007/s00228-021-03090-4