You may be familiar with the delicious taste of papaya, but did you know about the benefits of its leaves? Papaya leaves are often overlooked, however, they have a nutritional-rich profile and possess medicinal properties. Adding them to your diet is an effective way to promote your overall well-being. We spoke to Dr Ekta Singhwal, MSc Dietician, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, who listed its benefits and how to consume it.
Health Benefits Of Papaya Leaves
Boosts Immune System
The high vitamin C content in papaya leaves stimulates the production of white blood cells and enhances the body's defence against infections. Including papaya leaves in your diet can provide an immunity boost. According to the DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Papaya leaves have been used as medicine to treat many illnesses, including jaundice, fever, asthma, and beriberi.
Digestive Aid
“Papain and chymopapain enzymes in papaya leaves support digestion by breaking down proteins and aiding in the absorption of nutrients”, said Dr Singhwal. Consuming papaya leaf tea or juice can help alleviate digestive issues, such as bloating and indigestion.
Also Read: From Digestion To Skin Health: Here Are Health Benefits Of Chewing Jamun Leaves That You Should Know
Liver Health
Dr Singhwal added, “The compounds present in papaya leaves may help protect the liver from damage and improve its function. Papaya leaves are rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help neutralise harmful free radicals and protect liver cells from oxidative damage.”
Platelet Boost
Papaya leaves also have the potential to increase platelet count. According to a study published in InnoVision Media, papaya leaves have been used to treat thrombocytopenia in regions where dengue fever is endemic.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The presence of flavonoids and other anti-inflammatory compounds in papaya leaves can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This makes papaya leaves beneficial for individuals dealing with inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
According to a comparative study by Inflammopharmacology, Papaya leaf extract was found to dramatically reduce inflammation and oedema in the paws of rats with arthritis.
Also Read: Mint Leaves For Cold And Asthma: Here Is How You Can Use It To Get Relief
Ways to Add Papaya Leaves Into Your Routine
Dr Singhwal listed ways to consume papaya leaves as follows:
Papaya Leaf Tea
- Boil fresh papaya leaves in water for about 10 minutes.
- Strain the leaves and enjoy the tea. You can also add honey or lemon to tea for flavour.
Papaya Leaf Salad
- Wash and finely chop young papaya leaves.
- Mix them with other fresh greens to create a nutrient-packed salad.
Papaya Leaf Juice
- Blend fresh papaya leaves with water to make a smooth juice.
- Strain the mixture to remove any fibres.
- Add a splash of lemon or ginger for extra flavour.
Papaya Leaf Face Mask
- Grind fresh papaya leaves into a paste.
- Put the paste on your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse it off. It can help you cleanse and rejuvenate your skin.
Papaya Leaf Capsules or Extracts
Papaya leaf supplements are available in the form of capsules or extracts. It is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional to ensure you are taking the correct dosage and receiving proper guidance.
Precautions
Dr Singhwal highlighted, “While papaya leaves offer numerous health benefits, it's essential to consume them in moderation and be mindful of potential side effects. Pregnant women should avoid excessive consumption of papaya leaves, as certain compounds may stimulate contractions. Also, people with latex allergies should exercise caution, as papaya contains latex-like substances.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your dietician before adding anything to your diet for a dietary plan tailored to your needs and body type.]