Ivy Leaf
A Strong clinical evidenceHedera helix
Syrups and drops with standardised ivy leaf extract are used as an expectorant for chesty cough. The leaf itself is not made into tea.
Forms of use
Syrup & Paste
Products prepared as syrups, pastes or oil-based mixtures in jars.
7 herbs · 3 with clinical evidence (A/B) · 4 not marked avoid in pregnancy
Black Mulberry Syrup
T Traditional useMorus nigra
A black mulberry syrup traditionally used in Anatolia for mouth ulcers and sore throats. It is rich in anthocyanins and high in sugar.
Pelargonium Root
T Traditional usePelargonium sidoides, Pelargonium reniforme
Pelargonium (umckaloabo) root extract is traditionally used for common cold symptoms; liver injury has been reported with it.
Pine Cone Syrup
T Traditional usePinus spp.
A syrup made by steeping young pine cones in sugar. Traditionally used for cough and throat irritation; there are no clinical data.
Terebinth Berry
T Traditional usePistacia terebinthus
The roasted fruit of terebinth, a wild pistachio. Its "coffee" is loved in South-East Anatolia; respiratory uses are traditional only.
Coconut Oil
B Limited clinical evidenceCocos nucifera
An effective skin moisturiser; small studies found it helpful for children's atopic dermatitis. As a food fat, it is very high in saturated fat.
Bitter Melon in Olive Oil
B Limited clinical evidenceMomordica charantia
A folk remedy of bitter melon steeped in olive oil. Small studies saw a modest fall in blood sugar; it has not been shown to heal ulcers.