Hedera helix (Common Hiedra): what is it, what is it for and how to use it

The common hiedra, also called hedera helixis a medicinal plant of hojas verde and shiny that contains flavonoids, saponins and polyphenolic acids which help in the treatment of respiratory diseases and certain respiratory diseases.

This plant is used in the composition of some beauty products, such as creams against cellulitis and wrinkles, and in some drugstore jars. It can be acquired in stores of natural products and in some manipulation pharmacies in the form of jarabe, ointments, cream, shampoo, capsules or for infusion.

It is important that before the use of any presentation that contains common hiedra, you consult a doctor, nutritionist or phytotherapist to guide the necessary dose and time of proper use according to the alteration to be treated.

what is it for

The common hiedra has several properties that help in the treatment of diseases such as bronchitis or cold, for example, being the main ones:

1. Helps to expel flemas

The common fluid contains saponins, α-hederin and hederogenin, which are compounds that act on the inflamed bronchi, helping them to expand and expelling phlegms, in addition to relieving them, which is why the extract of this plant is useful in cases of acute bronchitis and cough, decreasing the symptoms.

2. Fight infections

The common hiedra extract has an effect on infections caused by bacteria, fungi and parasites, because it contains saponins, α-hederin, falcarinol and falcarinone acetylenes which help to treat infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Shigella, E. Coli , Pseudomona aeruginosa and Candida.

3. Relieves pain and inflammation

The ethanolic extract and the purified one from common hiedra have been shown to reduce inflammation due to the C and saponins hederacoside compounds, which relieve the symptoms of swelling and even pain.

4. Prevent liver diseases

The α-hederin and amide compounds found in the extract of common hiedra seeds have been shown to protect the liver against the use of drugs that are metabolized in this organ, such as paracetamol, and that prevent liver damage, preventing deterioration and the emergence of diseases such as liver failure, for example.

5. Combats venous insufficiency

The common hiedra has saponins and α-hederin, which have lipolytic properties, and it is decided that they help to prevent the accumulation of grease in the blood, in addition to helping the absorption of other compounds, such as Asian centella, for example, because it can be used in cases of venous insufficiency.

How to use the common hiedra

All parts of fresh hiedra are toxic and therefore should not be used. The hiedra only must be ingested when it is in the composition of medicines bought in the pharmacy, and that the laboratories isolate the components that can be consumed by the man.

side effects

The secondary effects of the hiedra or the products that contain it include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, contact allergy and breathing difficulties. In addition, in cases of excessive doses, the common hiedra can put life at risk.

Contraindications

This plant is contraindicated in embarassed women, as it could cause miscarriage, it should also be ingested during maternal breastfeeding, under 2 years of age, in cases of hyperthyroidism, as well as when you are taking any medication against it. to.