2023-08-09 13:24:10
Revealing Study Shows Papaya Leaves’ Potential to Fight Dengue Virus
Date: 9 Aug 2023
Dr. Pakakrong Kwankhao, Assistant Director Thai traditional and alternative medicine at Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital, has announced promising results from a study on the effectiveness of “papaya leaves” in combating the dengue virus. This research provides hope for the use of herbs in the fight against diseases like dengue, as well as emphasizes the importance of destroying breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
According to data from the Department of Disease Control, there has been a significant increase in dengue patients nationwide, with over 5,000 new cases per week. This figure is three times higher than the same period last year. Dr. Pakakrong warns that if preventative measures are not taken, the situation may worsen, causing more severe symptoms. The dengue virus has four strains, but only one strain provides immunity, making it crucial to prevent mosquito bites.
To prevent an outbreak, Dr. Pakakrong suggests using preventive products such as Andrographis paniculata or citronella, in addition to eliminating mosquito larvae breeding sites. Andrographis paniculata has been researched for its ability to inhibit the dengue virus, but it should not be used if there is bruising or abnormal bleeding.
Regarding the symptoms of dengue fever, Dr. Pakakrong explains that out of 100 patients, 80 may be asymptomatic, while 10 may experience mild symptoms, and 10 require hospital treatment due to severe symptoms. It is important for patients to be vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience a high fever, nausea, vomiting, or bleeding after being bitten by mosquitoes. Dengue virus infection can cause a drop in platelet count.
Unfortunately, there is currently no specific treatment for the dengue virus. Symptomatic treatment, primarily the administration of antipyretic drugs, is employed to manage symptoms and prevent dehydration. Paracetamol is commonly used as an antipyretic, but other drugs that may cause bleeding disorders, like aspirin or ibuprofen, should be avoided. Herbal remedies like thieves sky can be effective in the early stages of fever, but should be stopped if there is any bleeding. Chanlila is an herbal medicine that can be used to reduce fever without affecting platelets.
A study conducted at Phen Hospital, Udon Thani province, has investigated the use of papaya leaf juice in dengue patients. The study found that patients who received papaya leaf juice had shorter hospital stays compared to those who did not. The platelet count in the experimental group increased from the 3rd day onwards and returned to normal by the 5th day, while the control group’s platelet count continued to decrease. The experimental group also experienced faster recovery and lower body temperatures, leading to increased comfort.
To prepare the papaya leaf juice, 1-3 leaves of medium maturity are washed, cut into small pieces, and thoroughly crushed. The juice is then filtered using a thin white cloth, and coconut sugar is added for taste. The mixture is refrigerated for no longer than 24 hours before being consumed. Adults should drink 30 ml, while pediatric patients above 10 years old should drink 10 ml, three times a day for 5-7 consecutive days.
Dr. Pakakrong’s research and the study at Phen Hospital highlight the potential of herbal remedies like papaya leaves and Andrographis paniculata in fighting the dengue virus, providing hope for more effective treatments and prevention strategies in the future.]
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