Papaya Leaf
Also known as: Carica papaya leaf, CPLE, papaya leaf extract, Carica papaya L.
Effective Dosage
500 mg daily (dengue context); No established dose for other uses
What the Science Says
Papaya leaf is an extract from the leaves of the Carica papaya tree, long used in traditional medicine across tropical regions. The strongest clinical evidence supports its ability to raise platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) in two specific contexts: dengue fever and chemotherapy-induced low platelets. In dengue patients, 500 mg daily showed significantly higher platelet counts by day 3 and reduced hospital stays. A Phase III randomized trial also found it meaningfully improved platelet recovery in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, without notable safety concerns.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't detox your body — a clinical trial found a multi-ingredient blend containing papaya leaf did nothing for body composition, waist size, or gut symptoms. No proven benefit for general immune boosting in healthy people. Not a treatment for dengue itself, only the low platelet complication. No evidence it helps with weight loss. Dental antibacterial effects are very preliminary and not a reason to take it as a supplement.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Papaya leaf is an extract from the leaves of the Carica papaya tree, long used in traditional medicine across tropical regions. The strongest clinical evidence supports its ability to raise platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) in two specific contexts: dengue fever and chemotherapy-induced low platelets. In dengue patients, 500 mg daily showed significantly higher platelet counts by day 3 and reduced hospital stays. A Phase III randomized trial also found it meaningfully improved platelet recovery in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, without notable safety concerns.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 500 mg daily (dengue context); No established dose for other uses
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic or absorption data provided in the available studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Animal studies suggest possible antifertility effects (prolonged estrous cycle, reduced estrogen receptor expression) — women trying to conceive should avoid it
- Most evidence is in sick patients (dengue, chemotherapy) — benefits in healthy adults are unproven
- Often sold in 'detox' blends with no evidence the combination works
- Cosmetic safety panel flagged the need for safety assessment of papaya-derived ingredients — long-term safety data in supplement doses is limited
- Self-treating dengue or chemotherapy side effects without medical supervision is dangerous
Products Containing Papaya Leaf
See how Papaya Leaf is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-10