We take into the piggy bank the unique beneficial properties of ivy for the body
Millions of people around the world suffer from various infectious diseases. Therefore, experts use the beneficial properties of ivy to stimulate the healing process. The plant contains a number of chemical compounds necessary for the human body. Thanks to this, various drugs have been created that are prescribed to sick patients. Similarly, in traditional medicine, there are a huge number of recipes for making medicinal drinks.
The "deceiving" appearance of the plant
It is a powerful tree-like shrub of a climbing character:
- The maximum length of shoots reaches 30 m. They come in 2 varieties.
- Sterile branches have a thin structure and short suction cups.
- Fruit-bearing shoots are much thicker and, moreover, are covered with small villi.
- Along their entire length, they are decorated with leathery foliage of an ovoid and angular-lobed shape. Some specimens reach 25 cm in diameter. If the plate is slightly kneaded, a subtle nutmeg aroma appears.
- Closer to autumn, small nondescript buds form among the greenery. They are yellowish-green in color and are compactly collected in umbellate inflorescences. Although the petals do not exude an odor, they contain an abundance of nectar that bees feed on.
- Over time, the buds are replaced by black or dark purple berries. They are covered with a thin and smooth rind, inside which is juicy pulp.
In its natural environment, ivy is found in the Northern Hemisphere, where there is a mild climate. Most often, it is planted in summer cottages near gazebos or fences. In winter, evergreen foliage serves as a safe haven for birds. However, the most important advantage of a modest-looking plant is the abundance of valuable components that are so necessary for human health.
In folk medicine, leaf plates and flowering buds with nearby branches are used.
"Destructive power" of chemical compounds
The healing properties of ivy and contraindications directly depend on the set of components that are in the foliage and miniature buds.
Studies have shown that the plant contains:
- vitamins of group C and E;
- carbohydrates;
- sucrose;
- glucose;
- fructose;
- tannins;
- resins;
- glycosides.
In addition, coumarins and 3 types of organic acids were found in leaf plates: malic, formic, and chlorogenic. Each of them is an indispensable component for the well-coordinated work of the body. The blossoming buds store phenolic compounds, pectins and iodine. Even seeds can boast of an abundance of oily substances.
Some chemical compounds cause allergies in patients, since the plant is considered to be highly poisonous.
Harnessing the Health Benefits of Ivy
Research by scientists has shown that the components of the plant have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the internal organs of the body.
Such properties have been noticed:
- antiviral;
- antispasmodic;
- antimicrobial;
- anti-inflammatory;
- expectorant;
- antineoplastic.
In many countries, the active use of field ivy in folk and traditional medicine is due to the high iodine content. As a result, many homeopathic medicines have been created on the basis of culture.
They are prescribed for such diseases:
- bronchitis;
- whooping cough;
- asthma;
- lingering cough.
The famous "Hedera helix" is used to restore the thyroid gland.
In addition, Fitotussin ivy capsules available to all are actively used for treatment:
- gallbladder;
- liver;
- stomach;
- gout;
- rheumatism:
- all kinds of dermatitis.
They are cylindrical capsules of dark green color, filled with plant extract. They are used to make tinctures. It is taken externally or for rinsing. For people who are hypersensitive to chemical compounds of raw materials, it is better to refuse the drug.
In a similar way, Indian ivy is used in medicine to treat children and adults. The plant extract is released in the form of tablets and mixtures. For example, the herbal medicine "Herbion" has anesthetic and antiseptic effect on the body.
Before using any medication, it is advisable to carefully study the instructions.
Healing Potions from the Humble Vine
A wide range of beneficial properties found in the plant makes it possible to prepare miraculous drinks from it. However, ivy is used very carefully during pregnancy. The poisonous substances that the plant contains can cause dizziness and nausea. As a result, not only the woman but also the child will suffer.
Cough and rheumatism medicine
For a concentrated "medicine" you will need a glass of dry foliage and young shoots of the culture. The raw material is poured into an enamel container. Pour boiling water (250 ml). Stir and cook for about 20 minutes at moderate temperature. The resulting liquid is filtered through cheesecloth. If necessary, the volume of liquid is replenished to make 250 ml. The drug is drunk 3 times a day in a tablespoon for chronic bronchitis.
Aromatic ivy leaf cough tea is prepared according to the classic recipe. Shredded raw materials (a teaspoon with a slide) are placed in a cup. Pour boiling water over. Insist under the lid for about 10 minutes. Tea is filtered through a strainer and drunk 3 times a day after meals. Add honey or granulated sugar if desired.
Herbal treatment requires a serious approach and proper dosage. Otherwise, problems may arise.
A wonderful remedy for rheumatism is ivy tincture, which is easy to prepare yourself. You will need clean cold water (200 ml) and dry raw materials (a teaspoon). Pour the crushed leaves with liquid and cover the lid. Put in a cool place. Insist no more than 12 hours. The finished drink is filtered. Take 200 ml once a day. Fresh composition is prepared every day.
To obtain an alcoholic tincture, take half a glass of dry foliage and shoots. Pour them with vodka (200 g). Insist the product for 21 days in the dark. Then the liquid is filtered and used in the treatment of intercostal neuralgia. Store the medicine in the refrigerator.
When gout, kidneys and urinary tract are concerned
Traditional healers use the benefits of ivy to create a natural gout-fighting product. The medicinal preparation is made from 0.5 teaspoon of dry crushed foliage of a climbing liana and 200 ml of boiling water. The slurry is insisted for an hour, covering the container with a terry towel. Then the broth is filtered through one layer of gauze. Divide it into 4 servings for a whole day.
In the treatment of renal failure, the drug is prepared from such components:
- field horsetail;
- rosemary;
- bearberry leaf;
- shoots of licorice;
- cumin seeds;
- ivy leaves.
Each type of raw material is taken in 10 g. Crushed thoroughly. Pour boiling water (1 l). Wrap up and insist until the liquid has completely cooled down. The filtered broth is taken 3 times a day, 100 ml after meals.
For the treatment of the urinary tract, a decoction is prepared according to a simple recipe. Take 6 large leaf plates of the plant. Pour them with hot water (500 ml). Bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes. After that, the liquid is wrapped in a kitchen towel and infused for 30 minutes.The filtered drug is drunk in 100 ml 3 times a day before meals.
"Exclusive" ivy honey
To obtain a valuable product, beekeepers specially release their insects during the autumn flowering of the crop.
The result is an original sweet mass that contains:
- vitamins of groups B, C and PP;
- carotene;
- saponin;
- formic acid;
- tannins;
- amino acids.
In addition, it contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats and a number of trace elements. All of them have a beneficial effect on the body.
Therefore, the beneficial properties of ivy honey are used to treat:
- colds;
- viral infections;
- organs of the digestive tract;
- arthritis;
- eczema;
- festering wounds.
Often, the sweet liquid is mixed with various essential oils. The result is a life-giving "ointment". It is usually used as a compress to treat eczema, non-healing wounds, and burns.
The product has a thick texture with small particles of candied nectar. White color. Emits a pronounced odor.
Beauty and lush vine
The use of ivy extract in cosmetology is widely recognized. Therefore, the substance is included in various body care products. It promotes skin elasticity. Makes it flexible and resistant to weather conditions. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, ivy extract helps fight acne, acne and warts. Shampoo containing ivy extract removes dandruff from the scalp. And the hair takes on a silky shine.
As you can see, a modest liana decorates not only country landscapes... The beneficial properties of ivy are due to its unique chemical composition. The plant contains a number of valuable compounds that the human body needs. Liana extract is a part of phytopreparations and cosmetics. Traditional healers offer miraculous infusions, decoctions and teas. Let us take care of our health with love.