Papaya leaves contain unique plant compounds that have demonstrated extensive pharmacological potential in animal and test-tube studies. Although there is little research on humans, many papaya leaf preparations, such as teas, extracts, tablets, and juices, are commonly used to treat diseases and promote health in a variety of ways. The following article will shed more light on 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 types of cuisine and folk medicine. Although there is not much research on humans, many preparations of papaya leaves have been used for many years to treat diseases and promote health.
7 Amazing Benefits and Uses of Papaya Leaves
Can Treat Symptoms Associated with Dengue Fever
One of the most prominent medicinal benefits of papaya leaves is their ability to treat some of the symptoms associated with dengue fever. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, and a rash on your skin. Severe cases can also cause a decrease in the number of platelets in your blood. Low platelet levels can increase the risk of bleeding and can be fatal if left untreated.
Although there is currently no cure for dengue fever, there are several treatments available to control the symptoms of the disease – one of which is using papaya leaves. Three studies conducted on hundreds of people with dengue fever showed that papaya leaf extract significantly increased the platelet count in the blood of these patients.
Furthermore, papaya leaf therapy has very few associated side effects and is said to be much more cost-effective than conventional treatments.
Maintain healthy blood sugar levels
Papaya leaves are commonly used in Mexican folk medicine as a natural treatment for type 1 and type 2 diabetes and to improve blood sugar control.
Studies in diabetic mice have also found that papaya leaf extract has strong 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, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that the same or similar effects occur in humans. Further research is needed to determine whether papaya leaves can be used to help control high blood sugar in humans.
What effect does papaya leaves have on diabetic patients?
May Aid Digestion
Papaya leaf tea and extract are often used as an alternative therapy to relieve uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, 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 types of digestive disorders. Most of the evidence supporting its use for this purpose is limited to anecdotal reports based on people’s experiences, and there is no guarantee that it will improve your digestive function in any way.
May Have Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Various papaya leaf preparations are commonly used to treat a variety of internal and external inflammatory conditions, including skin rashes, joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and muscle aches. Papaya leaves contain a variety of 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.
As such, at this time, there is insufficient scientific evidence to determine whether papaya leaves can treat acute or chronic inflammation in humans.
Papaya Leaves for Hair and Scalp Health
Topical applications of papaya leaf masks and juices are often used to improve hair growth and scalp health, but evidence supporting their 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 foods rich in antioxidants may help 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 they are rich in antioxidants. However, there is no significant evidence that applying papaya leaves topically 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 leaf has demonstrated antifungal properties in test-tube studies, so it is often thought to support hair and scalp health by inhibiting the growth of the fungus that causes dandruff.
However, papaya leaf has not been specifically tested against Malassezia, so there is no guarantee that it will have any beneficial effects.
Papaya Leaves for Healthy Skin
Papaya leaves are taken orally or applied topically as a way 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, the 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.
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.
Using Papaya Leaves Safely
While more research is needed to prove the many benefits of papaya leaves, papaya leaf use is generally considered 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, some people are allergic to papaya leaves, and it is recommended that you do not consume papaya leaves in any form. Furthermore, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor before using any papaya leaf preparations.
While papaya leaves themselves are generally considered safe for most people, it is important to choose only the highest quality products if you are purchasing 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 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, such as the United States Pharmacopeia.
There is not enough evidence to make specific dosage recommendations for each possible use of papaya leaf. However, taking three doses of up to 30ml of papaya leaf extract per day is considered safe and effective for treating dengue fever. If you are unsure how much papaya leaf you should consume, consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Papaya is one of the most widely grown fruits in the world, and its fruit, seeds, and leaves are used for a variety of culinary and medicinal purposes. Papaya leaf is commonly used in extract, tea, or juice form and has 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 whether 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 your doctor before adding any herbal supplements to your health care routine.
