Some men, usually the younger ones who have just entered the puberty stage, have faced the concern named gynecomastia. More popularly referred to as ‘moobs’ or ‘man boobs’, gynecomastia makes these men conscious of their figures, and so, they would want this condition to be gone as soon as possible.
If you are looking for natural means to treat gynecomastia, then note that you can always seek the aid of herbs. One herbal plant that many people consider as an effective treatment for gynecomastia is the English Ivy. Because of its properties, this herb is said to have the potential of treating the mentioned condition, among the other concerns it can assist you with.
What is English Ivy?
Hedera helix, also known as the common ivy or the English Ivy, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. It is a clinging evergreen vine that you can easily see on tree trunks, house walls and other shady places.
It may be a vine, but it is not the parasitic type. It also does not threaten healthy trees, and so its growth does not bother the people who have it in their properties.
Ivy is a plant usually associated with Christmas and is often connected with festive designs. During winter, it can also serve as food and water source.
What is Ivy Used for?
Aside from ivy being a popular ornamental, it is also useful in treating a number of conditions including warts, verrucas and corns. It is also used for making medicine. You can use it to treat disorders of the spleen, liver and gallbladder, as well as for gout, muscle spasms, chronic bronchitis, joint pain and tuberculosis.
Ivy also helps reduce the swelling of the breathing passages’ membranes, and it can function as an expectorant by helping break up chest congestion. Aside from it being an expectorant, it also has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
How Ivy Fights Gynecomastia?
The English Ivy is known to reduce cellulite. Past stories have spread as well about ivy being wrapped into breasts for them to restore their elasticity and bring them back to their proper position. These stories are applied to women’s breasts; studies are conducted if this can work with man boobs as well.
How Ivy is Taken?
Ivy can be taken by mouth, but take note that it has a bitter taste. Applying fresh leaves is not recommended as the leaves can irritate one’s skin. It is a safe herb in its totality, but it is crucial to exercise caution when planning to take it.
Ivy allergy is not really common, but if present, the affected individual may experience itchiness or redness of the skin, shortness of breath, and swelling. People with asthma are also recommended to take ivy leaf extract; twice the amount will benefit adults who have asthma.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not advised to take ivy, as there are not enough information that support the use of it. Avoid use to be on the safe side, unless recommended by a medical professional.