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Herbs |
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Herb name: Ivy, Hedera helix
Family: Hederaceae Useful plant parts: Leaves and parts of the stem with flowers Description: Ivy is a shrub-like plant that often has many roots climbing on trees. It is often thought that ivy damages trees (as mistletoe does), but that isn't quite true. The ivy climbs trees just because there is more light there than on the ground. Ivy leaves are evergreen. The younger leaves have a hairy surface, while the older ones have a smooth surface. On the upper side, the leaves are mostly dark green colored, while the bottom sides have a light green color. The flowers can be green or yellow, collected in round blossoms. From the flowers, dark blue fruits develop (which are poisonous).
Collecting period and locations: Ivy leaves may be picked in any time of the year, although the content of medicinal substances is on the highest level just before blooming (early autumn). Gathered leaves are gradually dried in warm air. As for the locations, ivy is a very common plant and can be easily found in any forest, growing on the trees, or on the ground. It is also not uncommon to notice ivy growing on old walls in urban areas. Medicinal properties and applications: Ivy is effective as a remedy for bronchitis, asthma and cough. Besides this, it has been proven that the ivy has a positive effect on the heart, which is in recent times more and more explored and used.
Active compounds: Saponins, glycosides, various organic acids and mineral compounds. Recipe: A tea can be made from ivy by taking one full teaspoon of dried ivy leaves and adding them to 1/4 liter of boiling water. After 10-15 minutes the tea is strained and is then ready.
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