Papaya Leaf (Carica papaya)
PAPAYA Papaya (Carica papaya Linn):
Is globally recognized for its remarkable nutritional and therapeutic attributes. The properties of the papaya fruit and other parts of the plant have long been acknowledged within traditional medicinal systems. Over the past few decades, significant advancements have been made in understanding the biological activities and medicinal applications of papaya, leading to its recognition as a valuable nutraceutical fruit-bearing plant. Papaya exhibits excellent medicinal qualities for addressing various health conditions. Different parts of the Carica papaya plant, including its leaves, seeds, latex, and fruit, have demonstrated medicinal value.
Taxonomic Classification:
Family: Caricaceae Genus: Carica
otanical Name: Carica papaya
Chemical Composition of Carica papaya: The plant contains various active compounds, including the alkaloids carpain, pseudocarpain, and dehydrocarpaine I and II. Other constituents include choline, carposide, as well as vitamins C and E.
Nutrient Content: Analysis of papaya leaves (per 100 g) indicates the presence of 74 calories, 77.5 g of water, 7.0 g of protein, 2.0 g of fat, 11.3 g of total carbohydrates, 1.8 g of fiber, 2.2 g of ash, 344 mg of calcium, 142 mg of phosphorus, 0.8 mg of iron, 16 mg of sodium, 652 mg of potassium, 11,565 micrograms of β-carotene equivalent, 0.09 mg of thiamine, 0.48 mg of riboflavin, 2.1 mg of niacin, 140 mg of ascorbic acid, and 136 mg of vitamin E.
Traditional Medicinal Applications: Young leaves of the papaya plant are utilized as a vegetable and are traditionally employed for various health issues such as jaundice, urinary problems, urinary tract infections, and gonorrhea. They are also used for dressing wounds, exhibit antibacterial activity, act as a vermifuge for colic, and are used in cases of fever, beriberi, to induce abortion, and for asthma.
Findings from Clinical Research:
A study conducted by Dr. Sanath Hettige involving 70 patients with dengue fever showed that the consumption of papaya leaf juice led to an increase in white blood cell and platelet counts, normalized blood clotting, and aided in liver repair [5].
Recent investigations into papaya leaf tea extract have indicated the inhibition of cancer cell growth. This effect appears to be linked to the enhanced production of key signaling molecules known as Th1-type cytokines, which play a crucial role in regulating the immune system.
Available Product Specifications: 45% Glycosides
Product Information:
Botanical/ Scientific Name: Carica papaya Part Used: Dried leaves Identification Method: Gravimetry Heavy Metal Limits: Arsenic: Not more than 20 parts per million Lead: Not more than 1 part per million Microbiological Quality: As per JPN Food Regulation.