Recent tragic events around the world have shown the deadly consequences that contaminated cough medicines can have, especially for children. These incidents highlight the urgent need for safer, natural alternatives to conventional cough medicines.

The risks associated with chemical cough syrups also apply to adults, including the risk of abuse, addiction, and serious side effects.

Fortunately, there is a natural alternative that can relieve coughs effectively and without dangerous side effects: ivy leaf extract (Hedera helix).

Harmful Ingredients

Cough syrups with ingredients such as codeine, dextromethorphan and decongestants can be dangerous for both children and adults:

• Dextromethorphan (DXM): Can cause dizziness, nausea and hallucinations in high doses.
• Codeine: An opioid that can cause drowsiness, constipation and breathing problems.
• Alcohol: Some cough syrups contain alcohol, which can interact with other medications and impair judgment.

Potential Side Effects

• Misuse and Addiction: If misused, these medicines can have narcotic effects that can lead to dependence.
• Questionable Efficacy: Many studies indicate that over-the-counter cough syrups are no more effective than placebos.
• Severe Side Effects: Overdose can lead to drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties. They can also be risky for adults with hypertension.

Even when used correctly, ordinary cough syrups may cause the following:

• Drowsiness and dizziness
• Stomach upset
• Dry mouth and constipation
• Visual disturbances
• Headaches

Safety Concern for Children: Cough syrups are not recommended for children under 4 years of age as they pose serious risks.

Recent tragedies in India, Indonesia, Gambia, and Uzbekistan, where contaminated cough syrups have led to the death of numerous children, underscore the urgent need for safer alternatives.

The Natural Benefits of Ivy Leaf Extract

1. What is Ivy Leaf Extract?

This extract is obtained from the leaves of Hedera helix (English ivy) and contains compounds that relieve coughs and respiratory complaints.

2. Historical Uses

Ivy has been used for centuries, in ancient and traditional European medicine to treat various ailments.

3. Active Compounds

Saponins like hederacoside are the main active compounds responsible for the positive effects of ivy leaf extract on the respiratory tract.

How Ivy Leaf Extract Works Against Coughs

1. Expectorant Properties ^1,2,3

It thins and loosens mucus, so that it can be excreted more easily.

2. Bronchodilator Effects ⁴

The extract helps to open the airways, which benefits people with asthma or other respiratory diseases.

3. Anti-inflammatory Action⁴

It reduces inflammation of the airways, and relieves cough symptoms.

Benefits of Using Ivy Leaf Extract

1. Natural and Safe

Because it is derived from a natural source, it generally has fewer side effects and lower risk of adverse reactions.

2. Effective Symptom Relief

Studies show that it can be just as effective as conventional cough medicines in relieving symptoms.

3. Suitable for All Ages

Generally considered safe for children and adults.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Ivy Leaf Extract

A meta-analysis in Scientific Reports in 2022⁵ investigated the efficacy of ivy leaf extract in the treatment of cough in acute respiratory infections. The results of the analysis of 6 high-quality clinical trials with 390 patients showed that

• Significantly greater improvement in Bronchitis Severity Score compared to placebo.
• Higher rates of complete resolution of cough.
• Effective reduction in cough intensity and faster recovery, with no safety concerns.

Choosing a Safe, Natural Cough Remedy

When selecting a cough remedy, opt for products that are free from harmful chemicals. Cough preparations based on ivy leaf extract, like Kordel's BEWELL IVY LEAF DROPS, offer a natural, non-drowsy solution that is suitable for the whole family.

Kordel's product contains 70mg of pharmaceutical grade ivy leaf extract with 5% hederacoside, which is clinically proven to:

• Decrease the severity and frequency of coughs.
• Loosen the mucus in the chest.
• Ease breathing.

It also contains elderberry concentrate to support the immune system and is free from alcohol and artificial colors.

With the dangers posed by contaminated cough syrups, it's time to embrace the natural power of ivy leaf extract. Choosing a safe, effective cough remedy like Kordel's BEWELL IVY LEAF DROPS can provide relief without compromising your family's health and well-being.

Conclusion

As we found out, ivy leaf extract offers a convincing natural alternative to conventional cough syrups. With its proven efficacy, safety profile, and lack of harmful side effects, it's no wonder more and more people are turning to this purple packet for their cough and respiratory needs. So the next time you're having a cough, why not consider giving Kordel’s ivy leaf drops a try? Your lungs (and your peace of mind) might just thank you for it.

References

1. Wieland, T., Kreuter, J., Hüttner, H. J., & Seidel, J. C. (2021). Ivy leaf (Hedera helix) for acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1).
2. Roşca-Casian, O., Sevastre, B., Hanganu, D., Olah, N. K., Mocan, A., Vâlcan, A., ... & Benedec, D. (2017). Bioactive phenolics fraction of Hedera helix L. (Common Ivy Leaf). Farmacia, 65(1), 89-94.
3. Nosalova, G., Sutovska, M., Mokry, J., Kardosova, A., Capek, P., & Khan, M. T. H. (2005). Antitussive activity of the complex of saponins and polysaccharides from Hedera helix L. Phytomedicine, 12(9), 657-664.
4. Schulte-Michels, J., Keksel, C., Häberlein, H., & Franken, S. (2019). Anti-inflammatory effects of ivy leaves dry extract: influence on transcriptional activity of NFκB. Inflammopharmacology, 27(2), 339-347.
5. Völp, A., Schmitz, J., Bulitta, M., Raskopf, E., Acikel, C., & Mösges, R. (2022). Ivy leaves extract EA 575 in the treatment of cough during acute respiratory tract infections: meta-analysis of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 1-11.