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Common Name
Paw Paw, Papaya
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Botanical Name
Carica papaya
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Part Used
Leaf
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Clinical Summary
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Monograph
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Alcohol
30%
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Dose
15 to 30mL weekly
Traditionally used for malaria, oral candidiasis, dengue fever, anaemia, as a vermifuge and for diabetes and hypertension. There are increasing anecdotal reports of paw paw’s effects in cancer treatment and prevention, with many successful cases, however the precise cellular mechanism of action of paw paw remains unclear and clinical studies are lacking.
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Traditional Use
In traditional Ayurvedic literature paw paw leaves were used for asthma, beri beri, fever, abortion, dressing wounds (fresh leaves), antibacterial activity, jaundice, gonorrhoea, urinary complaints and as a vermifuge. Green paw paw leaf tea promotes digestion and aids in the treatment of ailments such as chronic indigestion, obesity, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure and weakening of the heart.
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Actions
Anthelmintic, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, digestive stimulant, antihypertensive, immunomodulator
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Indications
• Viral, bacterial and fungal infections
• Wounds and skin infections; acne
• Poor digestion
• Possible use in diabetes, hypertension and cancers -
Energetics
Pungent, bitter, hot, dry
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Use in Pregnancy
Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. In the absence of sufficient data, the use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended. Consumption of the ripe fruit is safe. The unripe fruit, and an infusion of the leaves, was traditionally used as an abortifacient, or contraceptive, in parts of the Indian continent.
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Contraindications & Cautions
Allergies and reactions to the plant pollen can occur rarely and the latex sap from the fresh plant may cause irritation on sensitive skins.
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Drug Interactions
Caution with antiplatelet/anticoagulant (such as warfarin) and antidiabetic drugs.
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Dietary Information
Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free
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Substitutes
Green Tea, Graviola, Pomegranate, Pau D’arco, Sweet Wormwood