Phytochemical Contents, Biological Activities, and Therapeutic Applications of Hedera Helix (Ivy Leaf) Extracts: A Review

Abstract

Background: Herbs have long been used as natural therapeutics, and recent controlled clinical studies have confirmed some of the presumed benefits. Hedera helix (ivy leaves) is a valuable common from related to the family Araliaceae. Many herbal preparations include extracts from their leaves as the principle active ingredient. Objective: The objective of this article is to summarize the pharmacological activities and phytochemical screening of H. helix. Methods: The objective of this article is to summarize the pharmacological activities and phytochemical screening of H. helix. Results: The all-published studies depend on isolation, identification and characterization of different active constituents of H. helix leaves followed by determination of biological activities in vivo and in vitro. Chemical screening has shown that H. helix leaves are a rich source of phytochemicals with demonstrated therapeutic activities, such as sterols, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, phenols, emetine alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, volatile and fixed oils, vitamins, carbohydrates, reducing sugars, and minerals. Further, studies of disease models and clinical trials have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, analgesic, cough suppressant, expectorant, anticancer, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and smooth muscle relaxant activities. Conclusion: This review summarizes the bioactive constituents of H. helix leaves and their underlying pharmacological mechanisms, clinical efficacies, and safety profiles. We also suggest potential therapeutic uses for Covid-19.