Papaya leaves contain unique plant components that have shown significant pharmacological potential in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Although there is little research on humans, various products made from papaya leaves, such as teas, extracts, tablets, and juices, are widely used to treat diseases and promote health in many ways. This article will clarify the effects of papaya leaves.
Carica papaya, also known as papaya or pawpaw, is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and the northern regions of South America. Today, papaya is one of the most widely grown plants in the world. Its fruit, seeds, and leaves are commonly used in many cuisine and folk medicine forms. Although there is limited research involving humans, papaya products have been widely used to treat diseases and promote health for many years.
2. 7 excellent benefits of papaya leaves
2.1. Can treat dengue fever’s symptoms
One of the significant medicinal benefits of papaya leaves is their ability to treat symptoms associated with dengue fever. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and causes flu-like symptoms like fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, and rash. In severe cases, there is a decrease in the number of platelets in your blood. Low platelet levels may increase bleeding risk and can be fatal if untreated.
Although there is no cure for dengue fever, there are some treatments to control the symptoms - one is to use papaya leaves. Three studies have been conducted on hundreds of people affected by dengue fever, showing papaya extracts increase platelet levels remarkably in these patients.
Furthermore, papaya leaf therapy has few side effects and is much more cost-effective than conventional treatments.
2.2. Maintain a healthy glucose level
Papaya leaves are often used in Mexican folk medicine as a natural therapy to treat Diabetes type 1 and type 2 and improve control of blood glucose levels.
Studies in diabetic mice have also found that papaya leaf extract has powerful antioxidant and blood sugar-lowering effects. This is thought to be because papaya leaves protect the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas from damage and premature death.
However, no scientific evidence suggests that similar effects occur in humans. Further research is needed to determine whether papaya leaves can help control high blood sugar in humans.
2.3. Support digestive system
Papaya leaf tea and extract are often used as an alternative therapy to relieve uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as bloating, gas, and heartburn. Papaya leaves are high in fiber—a nutrient that supports healthy digestive function—and a unique compound called papain. Papain is known for its ability to break down large proteins into smaller, more easily digestible proteins and amino acids. It is even used as a meat tenderizer in culinary practices. One study found that supplementing with papain powder derived from the papaya fruit helped reduce negative digestive symptoms, including constipation and heartburn, in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
There are no scientific studies that specifically evaluate the ability of papaya leaves to treat similar digestive disorders. Most of the evidence supporting its use for this purpose is limited to anecdotal reports, and there is no guarantee that it will improve your digestive function in any way.
2.4. May have anti-inflammatory effects
Various papaya leaf preparations are commonly used to treat internal and external inflammatory conditions, including skin rashes, joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and muscle aches. Papaya leaves contain various nutrients and plant compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as papain, flavonoids, and vitamin E. One study found that papaya leaf extract significantly reduced inflammation and swelling in the paws of mice with arthritis. However, no human studies have confirmed this finding.
Currently, there is insufficient scientific evidence 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 papaya leaf masks and juice are often used to improve hair growth and scalp health, but evidence supporting its effectiveness for these purposes is limited. Some studies also suggest that high levels of oxidative stress in the body may contribute to hair loss. Eating antioxidant-rich foods may help reduce oxidative stress and improve hair growth. Papaya leaves contain some antioxidant components like flavonoids and vitamin E.
Proponents of using papaya leaves to improve hair growth often claim they are rich in antioxidants. However, no significant evidence exists that applying papaya leaves can benefit hair growth. Some types of dandruff are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia, which can hinder your hair growth. Papaya leaves have demonstrated antifungal properties in test-tube studies, so it is often thought to support hair and scalp health by inhibiting the fungus growth that causes dandruff.
However, there have been no specific studies on papaya leaves to combat Malassezia, so there is no evidence for this benefit.
2.6. Use papaya leaves to make healthy skin
Papaya leaves are taken orally or applied topically to help you maintain 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 has the potential to reduce the appearance of clogged pores, ingrown hairs, and acne. Furthermore, enzymes in papaya leaves have been used to promote wound healing, and one study found that they reduced the appearance of scar tissue in rabbits.
2.7. Papaya leaves may have anti-cancer properties
Papaya leaves have been used in traditional medicine to help prevent and treat certain types of cancer, but modern research is lacking.
Papaya leaf extract has been shown to strongly inhibit the growth of prostate and breast cancer cells in test-tube studies, but neither animal nor human experiments have replicated these results. While consuming papaya leaves and other antioxidant-rich foods may play a role in cancer prevention, they have not been shown to have any curative properties.
3. Use papaya leaves safely
While more research is needed to prove the benefits of papaya leaves, in reality, papaya leaf consumption 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 very few negative side effects.
However, people allergic to papaya leaves should not consume them in any form. Furthermore, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor before using any papaya leaf preparations.
While papaya leaves are generally considered safe for most people, it is important to choose only the highest quality products if you purchase them as a supplement. Nutritional and herbal supplements are not strictly regulated in some countries, including the United States. Supplement manufacturers are not required to prove the safety or effectiveness of their products before selling them. As a result, they may contain contaminants or other potentially harmful ingredients not listed on the label. Choose supplements tested for purity by a third-party organization, such as the United States Pharmacopeia, to avoid unintended negative consequences.
Currently, there is insufficient evidence to make a precise recommendation for the dosage of each usage of papaya leaves. However, taking three doses of up to 30ml of papaya leaf extract daily is considered safe and effective for treating dengue fever. If you are unsure how much papaya leaf you should consume, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Papaya is one of the most widely grown plants in the world. Its fruit, seeds, and leaves are commonly used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Papaya leaves are commonly used 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 insufficient evidence to confirm it is effective for any of these purposes. Papaya leaves are considered safe but stay away from them if you are allergic to them. Always consult doctors before adding any supplemental herbs to your health habit.
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Reference sources: healthline.com, webmd.com
