Papaya Leaf

Basic Information

Papaya leaves are the leaves of the papaya tree (Carica papaya).They are large, oval-shaped, and have a smooth, glossy surface.They are typically dark green in color, but they can also be yellow or purple depending on the variety of papaya tree. Papaya leaves are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. They also contain antioxidants and other compounds that may have health benefits.

Papaya leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including:

  • Dengue fever
  • Malaria
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Digestive problems
  • Skin problems
  • Inflammation

Health Benefits:

  • Anti-diarrheal: Papaya leaf extract has been shown to be effective in treating diarrhea. It is thought to work by reducing the amount of fluid in the stool and by killing the bacteria that cause diarrhea.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Papaya leaf extract has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to improve symptoms of conditions like arthritis and asthma.
  • Antimicrobial: Papaya leaf extract has antimicrobial properties. It can help to fight off infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
  • Immunomodulatory: Papaya leaf extract can help to boost the immune system. This makes it a good choice for people who are often sick or have a weakened immune system.
  • Antioxidant: Papaya leaf extract is a good source of antioxidants. Antioxidants can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
  • Cancer: Papaya leaf extract has been shown to have anti-cancer properties in some studies. It is thought to work by killing cancer cells and by preventing the growth of new cancer cells.
  • Diabetes: Papaya leaf extract may help to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is thought to work by increasing the production of insulin and by reducing the absorption of sugar from the gut.
  • Heart health: Papaya leaf extract may help to protect the heart from damage. It is thought to work by reducing cholesterol levels, by improving blood circulation, and by preventing the formation of blood clots.
  • Digestive health: Papaya leaf extract can help to improve digestion. It is thought to work by breaking down food, by reducing inflammation in the gut, and by killing harmful bacteria.
  • Skin health: Papaya leaf extract may help to improve skin health. It is thought to work by reducing wrinkles, by lightening dark spots, and by fighting acne.

It is important to note that there is limited scientific research on the effectiveness of papaya leaf for its health benefits. It is best to consult with a doctor before using papaya leaf, especially if you are taking any medications.

Here are some ways to use papaya leaf:

  • Tea: You can make a tea by steeping dried or fresh papaya leaf extract in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
  • Capsules: You can take papaya leaf extract capsules as a dietary supplement.
  • Tincture: You can make a tincture by soaking papaya leaf extract in alcohol for several weeks.
  • Powder: You can dry and grind papaya leaf extract into a powder.

Papaya leaf extract is generally safe to use, but there are some potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any side effects, stop using papaya leaf extract and consult with a doctor.

Here from the website of https://www.vinmec.com/eng/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-papaya-leaves-en:

2. 7 great benefits and uses in papaya leaves

2.1. Can Treat Dengue-related Symptoms One of the most prominent medicinal benefits contained in papaya leaves is its ability to treat some of the symptoms associated with dengue. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne virus that can be transmitted to humans and cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, and a rash on the upper body. your skin. Severe cases also cause a decrease in the amount of platelets in the blood. Low platelet levels can increase the risk of bleeding and potentially cause death if left untreated.
Although there is currently no cure for dengue, there are several treatments to control the symptoms of the disease – one of which is the use of papaya leaves. Three studies that were conducted on hundreds of people with dengue fever showed that papaya leaf extract significantly increased the blood platelet levels of these patients.
Furthermore, papaya leaf therapy has very few side effects involved and is said to be much more cost-effective than conventional treatments.
2.2. Maintains blood sugar at a reasonable level Papaya leaves are often used in Mexican folk medicine as a natural remedy to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes and improve control. blood sugar.
Studies in diabetic rats have also found papaya leaf extract to have strong antioxidant and blood sugar lowering effects. This is thought to be because papaya leaves have the ability to protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas from damage and premature death.
However, there is no scientific evidence to indicate that the same or similar effects can occur in humans. More research is needed to determine if papaya leaves can be used to help control high blood sugar in humans.

2.3. May assist with digestive function Papaya leaf tea and extract is often used as an alternative therapy to ease uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as bloating, gas, and heartburn. Papaya leaves are packed with fiber – a nutrient that supports healthy digestive function – and a unique compound called papain. Papain is well known for its ability to break down large proteins into smaller and easier to digest proteins and amino acids. It is even used as a meat tenderizer in culinary practice. One study found that taking a papain powder supplement derived from papaya fruit helped reduce negative digestive symptoms, including constipation and heartburn, in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS ).
There are no scientific studies specifically evaluating papaya leaves’ ability to treat similar types of digestive disorders. Most of the evidence supporting its use for this purpose is usually limited to reports based on people’s experiences and there is no guarantee that it will improve your digestive function in the long run. any way.
2.4. May Have Anti-Inflammatory Effects Various papaya leaf preparations are commonly used to treat a wide range of internal and external inflammatory conditions, including skin rashes, joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis and muscle aches. Papaya leaves contain many nutrients and plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as papain, flavonoids, and vitamin E. One study found that papaya leaf extract significantly reduced inflammation and swelling in the feet of rats with arthritis. However, no human studies have confirmed this result.
Thus, up to the present time, the scientific evidence is still not enough to determine whether papaya leaves can treat acute or chronic inflammation in humans.

2.5. Papaya leaves support hair and scalp health Topical applications of masks and papaya leaf juice are often used for improving hair growth and scalp health, but evidence is Its effectiveness for these purposes is limited. Some studies also show that high levels of oxidative stress in the body can contribute to hair loss. Eating foods rich in antioxidants can help you reduce oxidative stress and subsequently improve hair growth. Papaya leaves contain several compounds with antioxidant properties such as flavonoids and vitamin E.
Proponents of using papaya leaves to improve hair growth often claim that it is rich in nutrients. Antioxidant. However, there is no substantial evidence that applying papaya leaves can be beneficial for hair growth. Some types of dandruff are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia, which can interfere with your hair growth. Papaya leaf has demonstrated anti-fungal properties in test-tube studies, so it is often said to support hair and scalp health by inhibiting the growth of the fungus that causes dandruff.
However, papaya leaves have not been tested specifically against Malassezia, so there is no guarantee that it will have any beneficial effects.
2.6. Papaya leaves for healthy skin Papaya leaves are taken orally or applied topically as a way to help you maintain a soft, clear, and youthful skin. A proteolytic enzyme in papaya leaves called papain can be used topically as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and potentially reduce the appearance of clogged pores. clogging, ingrown hairs and acne. Furthermore, enzymes in papaya leaves have been used to promote wound healing, and one study found that they minimized the appearance of callus in rabbits.

2.7. Papaya leaves may have anti-cancer properties Papaya leaves have been used in traditional medicine practices to help prevent and treat certain types of cancer, but modern studies are lacking.
Papaya leaf extract has been shown to strongly inhibit the growth of prostate and breast cancer cells in test-tube studies, but both animal and human experiments Do not repeat this result. Although the consumption of papaya leaves and other antioxidant-rich foods may play a role in preventing cancer, they have not been shown to have any healing powers.

3. Use papaya leaves safely

Although more research is needed to prove the many benefits of papaya leaves, in fact, the consumption of papaya leaves is relatively safe. A 2014 animal study found that papaya leaves had no toxic effects even at very large doses, and human studies have reported few negative side effects.
However, there are still cases of allergy to papaya leaves and it is recommended not to consume papaya leaves in any form. Furthermore, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor before using any papaya leaf preparation.
While papaya leaf itself is generally considered safe for most people, it’s important that you only choose the highest quality products if you’re purchasing it as a supplement. Nutritional and herbal supplements are not strictly regulated in some countries, including the United States. Supplement manufacturers do not have to prove a product’s safety or effectiveness before selling it. As a result, they may contain contaminants or other potentially harmful ingredients that are not listed on the label. To avoid any unintended negative consequences, choose supplements that have been tested for purity by a third-party organization, like the United States Pharmacopeia.
There is not enough evidence yet to make precise dosing recommendations for each possible use of papaya leaves. However, taking three doses up to 30ml of papaya leaf extract per day is considered safe and effective for the treatment of dengue. If you are unsure how much papaya leaves you should consume, consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Papaya is one of the most commonly grown fruits in the world, its fruit, seeds and leaves are used for a variety of culinary and medicinal purposes. Papaya leaves are commonly taken in extract, tea or juice form and have been found to treat symptoms associated with dengue fever. Other common uses include: reducing inflammation, improving blood sugar control, supporting skin and hair health, and preventing cancer. However, there is not enough evidence to determine if it is effective for any of these purposes. Papaya leaf is generally considered safe, but you should avoid it if you are allergic to it. Always consult with your doctor before adding any herbal supplements to your wellness routine.