Review on Benefit of Carica papaya Leaf Extract in Dengue Associated Thrombocytopenia

Carica papaya leaf has been found to have a potential role in dengue associated thrombocytopenia. In traditional practice Papaya leaf has numerous medicinal benefits. Belonging to the family of Caricaceae, it is being grown in all the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The main objective of this review is to focus on the benefits of Carica papaya leaf extract for dengue associated thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia is a prominent feature in dengue fever and if left untreated will lead to more severe life threatening complications like internal or external blood loss or haemorrhage. It was found that papaya leaf contains unique plant compounds that have demonstrated wide pharmacological benefits. Presence of bioactive compounds like flavonoids, saponins and other compounds attributes to its antimicrobial/antiviral potential. Article search was conducted using the keywords mentioned below. Relevant clinical studies were identified and analysed on the benefits of Carica papaya leaf extract consumption. Papaya leaf extract was well tolerated by individuals including children. Overall, studies showed an increase in platelet count in patients receiving papaya leaf extract who were diagnosed with dengue. The leaf extract possess a dengue specific neutralising effect that exert a protective role on platelets. Papaya leaf extract along with the standard treatment would help in increasing the platelet levels.