ENGLISH NAME: Ivy (English
Ivy)
LATIN NAME: Hedera helix
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Břečťan popínavý
Turkey: Duvar sarmaşığı
Bulgaria: Бръшлян (Brŭshlyan)
Georgia: სურო (Suro)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Whole Czechia,
Black Sea coast (Turkey), Balkan range (Bulgaria), Imereti (Georgia)
Elevation: No specific
elevation; thrives from sea level up to 1,500 meters
Terrain: Forested areas,
stone walls, shaded slopes, urban gardens
DESCRIPTION:
English Ivy is a climbing vine with distinctive lobed leaves that are dark
green and glossy. It clings to surfaces and spreads easily, making it popular
for ground cover, garden walls, and vertical greening. It produces small,
greenish-yellow flowers in late autumn, followed by black berries.
USABLE PARTS: Leaf
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its expectorant properties to treat respiratory
conditions like bronchitis and coughs. Also known for anti-inflammatory effects
in topical preparations.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Can be toxic if ingested, especially berries. Skin contact may cause irritation
or allergic reactions.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Sometimes combined with thyme or licorice root in herbal cough syrups.
PREPARATION:
Dry leaves for decorative use or extract active compounds for medicinal
purposes (under professional guidance). Not for internal use without
supervision.
HARVEST TIME:
Throughout the growing season. Avoid excessive pruning to maintain plant
health.
HARVEST METHOD:
Handpick or trim selected leaves in moderation. Harvest in the morning when the
leaves are dry.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Thoroughly dry leaves and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct
sunlight. Use in wreaths, decorations, or carefully processed extracts.