Hedera helix L. (Araliaceae)

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Hedera helix L., common ivy is a popular ornamental and medicinal plant that is generally known for its usages against respiratory tract diseases, and irritating cough. It also has various biological activities such as bronchospasmolytic, antileishmanial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antitrypanosomal, antimutagenic, molluscicidal, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, anthelmintic and antithrombin activities. The main active compounds responsible for these biological activities are triterpenic saponins. Common ivy is a widespread plant that contains strong irritants like polyacetylene compounds, falcarinol, and didehydrofalcarinol, which are powerful irritants that cause severe contact eczema in patients generally via dermal contact. It occurs mainly in spring when ivy grows rapidly and usually when it is pruned. Typical symptoms of ivy dermatitis are linear and vesicular eczema, allergic contact dermatitis on the hands, lateral parts of fingers, fingertips and forearms, neck, face, trunk, and lower legs. Additionally, commercial herbal supplements containing H. helix for respiratory tract diseases may cause unexpected side effects for children like moderate angular cheilitis and diaper dermatitis, mild vomiting, acute tubulointerstitial nephritis, and mild nausea. Especially allergic people are recommended to be careful when using the H. helix plant and the products prepared from the plant.&nbsp;