Papaya – a fruit that is commonly found in tropical regions is a fruit that is rich in vitamins and other nutritional value. Along with being anti-bacterial and great for detoxing, a lesser-known but equally useful part of the plant are its leaves. Apart from the fruit, the leaves of the papaya plant are said to be the most-consumed part over the last few years, for its amazing health benefits. Rich in enzymes like papain and chymopapain, papaya leaves can be simmered in water for a couple of minutes, until the water develops a green hue – before adding honey to the filtered concoction and consuming it warm. Along with this easy way to make tea with the leaves, they are also consumed in the form of tablets, juices and extracts that can be mixed into smoothies or consumed as is. Here are some ways in which papaya leaf juice is a beverage one must include in their diet.
Boosts Platelet Count
Papaya leaf juice is often used in traditional medicine to increase platelet count, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with or recovering from dengue fever or other conditions that might lead to low platelet levels. Papaya leaf extract also helps stimulate platelet production, as a low count might increase the risk of bleeding and turn fatal.
Anti-Inflammatory
Drinking a cup of papaya leaf juice have anti-inflammatory properties as papain and chymopapain present in the drink, are compounds which can help reduce inflammation and benefit individuals with conditions like arthritis. Papaya leaf juice is considered to be a natural detoxifier since it cleanses the liver and eliminate toxins from the body.
Supports Digestive Health
Like the fruit, the enzymes in papaya leaf juice aid in digestion by breaking down proteins and promoting healthy digestive functions. It may help reduce symptoms of indigestion and constipation, soothing any discomforts that might be caused due to bloating or acidity. The fibre present in papaya leaves also provide relief from heartburn or uneasiness caused by over-eating.
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Boosts Immunity
The high content of vitamins and antioxidants in papaya leaf juice, particularly vitamin C, can strengthen the immune system and help the body fight off infections and illnesses. Adding papaya leaves to your green juice or consuming it in a liquid form on its own can protect from bacterial infections, and common flu and cold.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Preliminary research has suggested that papaya leaf extract may have potential anticancer properties, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. Consumption of the juice has been proven beneficial for those suffering from prostate or breast cancer, as it has been known to reduce the growth of cancerous cells, while experimentation.
Skin & Hair Health
The multiple vitamins, antioxidants and enzymes in papaya leaf juice promotes healthier skin. Outer application of papaya juice on the scalp can also stimulate hair growth. The juice reduces skin inflammation, acne as well as promotes wound healing. Skin conditions like itching, accumulation of dead skin ceels or rashes have also known to be dissolved with the application of papaya juice directly on the affected area.