Efficacy of Ivy Leaf Extract Syrup in Managing Bronchial Asthma Among Children: A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Bronchial asthma is a common chronic respiratory disorder in children, and there is growing interest in exploring herbal therapies such as ivy leaf extract for symptom relief. Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of dry extract of ivy leaves in children aged 7 to 12 years diagnosed with mild to moderate bronchial asthma. Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric Medicine, Pakistan Institute of Medical Science (PIMS), Islamabad, in collaboration with the International Islamic University, Islamabad, from August 2023 to July 2024. A total of 120 children with clinically stable bronchial asthma were enrolled using convenience sampling. All participants received a standardized dry ivy leaf extract syrup at a total daily dose of 105 mg, administered in age-appropriate doses for four weeks. Asthma symptoms were assessed using a standardized pediatric asthma control scoring tool at baseline and post-treatment. Adverse effects were monitored using structured checklists and open-ended questionnaires completed by caregivers. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, with paired t-tests to assess symptom changes. Results: The mean weekly frequency of daytime symptoms decreased from 4.58 ± 1.42 to 2.01 ± 1.18 (p<0.001), nocturnal awakenings reduced from 2.77 ± 1.11 to 1.05 ± 0.84 (p<0.001), and limitation in physical activity improved from 3.20 ± 1.03 to 1.35 ± 0.76 (p<0.001). Full compliance was observed in 108 (90.00%) patients. Adverse effects were minimal, with 84.17% reporting no issues. Conclusion: Dry ivy leaf extract appears to be an effective and well-tolerated adjunct treatment for symptom relief in pediatric bronchial asthma.