Ministry studies papaya leaves to treat dengue

A popular home remedy for dengue fever has received partial government endorsement, with the Health Ministry conducting research into the effect of papaya leaves to treat dengue fever.

Deputy Health Minister Dr Hilmi Yahaya said initial research showed that papaya leaf extract could raise the level of platelets in dengue fever victims faster.

“Taking a juice drink of the product based on papaya leaves as an alternative treatment for dengue fever is believed to be able to expedite recovery for dengue patients.

The ministry was now conducting a study to produce the extract in capsule form to widen alternative treatment methods for dengue patients, he told reporters.

He said the ministry would also cooperate with the Federal Land Development Authority to plant papaya trees for a regular supply of papaya leaves.

“The papaya crop will be used to produce juice or capsules from the extract for the treatment of dengue patients,” he said.

- BERNAMA