Dr. Mohammad Mujibur Rahman, a faculty member of the Department of Medicine at Dhaka Medical College, stated that there is no scientific evidence yet to prove that papaya leaf juice cures dengue. He explained that although several studies have been conducted in different parts of the world, none of them followed randomized controlled trials to establish papaya leaf juice as an effective treatment for dengue.
He further clarified that to confirm whether a particular medicine or remedy works against a disease, it must undergo scientific randomized controlled trials. Without such trials, it is impossible to make any conclusive statement about its effectiveness.
However, in some countries, dengue patients are advised to consume papaya leaf juice. For instance, in 2017, a study conducted in India on 400 dengue patients revealed that those who consumed papaya leaf juice experienced a faster increase in platelet counts and showed comparatively fewer side effects. This was reported in the Times of India.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine’s website also mentions the potential role of papaya leaf juice in managing dengue severity. It states that consuming papaya leaf juice in specific amounts can reduce the need for blood transfusions in patients.
Meanwhile, another natural remedy recently gaining attention is whether applying coconut oil can protect against mosquito bites. Professor Tahmina Akhter of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University’s Department of Entomology believes that any thick oil can act as a barrier against mosquito bites when applied to the skin. However, she noted that coconut oil mixed with insect-repelling agents may work even better. In particular, combining it with camphor or naphthalene powder could be more effective in preventing mosquito bites. Additionally, due to its strong odor, mustard oil can also serve as a mosquito repellent.
In conclusion, scientific evidence regarding natural remedies such as papaya leaf juice or coconut oil remains insufficient. For proper treatment, consulting doctors and following the recommendations of healthcare institutions are essential.
Beneficial Compounds in Papaya Leaf Juice
Papaya leaf juice contains certain natural compounds and chemicals that may offer health benefits. Although its effectiveness in curing dengue or other diseases is not scientifically proven, some of its components are believed to help boost the body’s immune system. Here are the key compounds found in papaya leaf juice and their potential health benefits:
1. Enzymes Papain and Chymopapain:
– Papaya leaves contain proteolytic enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which help break down proteins and aid in digestion. These enzymes have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially beneficial during infections like dengue.
2. Antioxidants:
– Papaya leaves are rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting cells from damage and boosting immunity.
3. Platelet Production:
– Some studies suggest that papaya leaf juice may help increase platelet count in the blood. Since a drop in platelet levels is a major complication in dengue, this property may help maintain blood stability.
4. Alkaloids:
– Papaya leaves contain alkaloids such as carpaine, pseudocarpaine, and dehydrocarpaine, which may support immune function. These compounds also show potential antimalarial and antifungal effects.
5. Antimicrobial and Antiviral Properties:
– Papaya leaves contain certain antimicrobial and antiviral compounds that can act against harmful microorganisms. While not directly effective in curing dengue, these may help prevent secondary infections.
6. Anti-inflammatory Properties:
– The anti-inflammatory elements in papaya leaves can help reduce swelling and pain caused by inflammation, which may relieve some dengue-related symptoms.
7. Digestive Effects:
– Papaya leaf juice supports the digestive system by helping regulate stomach acidity and gas, thereby improving overall gut health.
Usage and Precautions:
– Papaya leaf juice should be consumed only under medical guidance, as excessive intake may cause harm. In some cases, it may lead to liver or gastric problems.
Final Note:
Papaya leaf juice contains several compounds that may help strengthen the immune system, but it should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment of dengue or any other disease. The safest approach is to follow proper medical advice and treatment under a doctor’s supervision