Extracts of the Ivy Plant, Hedera helix, and their Anthelminthic Activity on Liver Flukes

Abstract

Three extracts from English or common ivy, Hedera helix, were prepared and tested for their anthelminthic activity both in vitro and in vivo. Saponic complex 60% (CS 60), purified saponic complex 90% (CSP 90) and alpha hederin were evaluated in vitro using the trematodes Fasciola hepatica and Dicrocoelium spp. These same extracts were assayed for their effects on Dicrocoelium in naturally infected sheep. After an exposure of 24 hours in vitro both Fasciola and Dicrocoelium were killed by α-hederin at concentrations of 0.005 and 0.001 mg/ml respectively. When sheep naturally infected with Dicrocoelium were treated p. o. with CS 60 and CSP 90 the worms were eliminated after three doses, one of 500 and two of 800 mg/kg. Alpha hederin was deemed slightly less efficacious at these concentrations. When compared with two reference compounds the authors conclude that these extracts show considerable promise. They also appear to be well tolerated by the sheep.