Journal of Tropical Diseases & Public Health

Potential Risks of using Carica papaya for Antiviral Activity against Dengue and Chikungunya

Freitas Zaman^* Department of Emerging Viruses, Inflammation and Therapeutics, Griffith University, South East Queensland, Australia
^*Correspondence: Freitas Zaman, Department of Emerging Viruses, Inflammation and Therapeutics, Griffith University, South East Queensland, Australia, Email:

Received: 01-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. JTD-23-22048; Editor assigned: 05-Jun-2023, Pre QC No. JTD-23-22048 (PQ); Reviewed: 20-Jun-2023, QC No. JTD-23-22048; Revised: 28-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. JTD-23-22048 (R); Published: 05-Jul-2023, DOI: 10.35241/2329-891X.23.11.393

Description

Dengue virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe flulike symptoms such as fever, headaches, joint pain, and rash. Chikungunya virus is another mosquito-borne virus that causes similar symptoms but can also lead to more serious complications such as arthritis and neurological disorders. There are currently no vaccines or treatments available for either virus, making prevention the best form of defense against infection. Recent studies have demonstrated that Carica papaya has strong antiviral activity against both dengue and chikungunya viruses. The active components responsible for this effect are compounds called papain and carpaine which are found in the leaves and seeds of the plant respectively. These compounds are able to inhibit the replication of the viruses by interfering with their ability to bind to host cells. Additionally, they have been found to reduce inflammation caused by the viruses, thus helping to reduce the severity of symptoms associate d with infection.

In addition to its antiviral effects, Carica papaya has also been shown to possess immunomodulatory properties which can help boost immunity against both dengue and chikungunya viruses. Carica papaya has long been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for many ailments, but its antiviral activity against dengue and chikungunya viruses is only recently being explored. Studies have shown that the leaves of this tropical plant contain compounds that can inhibit the replication of both viruses. In this article, we will explore the scientific evidence supporting the use of Carica papaya for antiviral activity against dengue and chikungunya. The first study to show Carica papayas antiviral activity against dengue was conducted in 2007. The researchers found that extracts from Carica papaya leaves inhibited the replication of dengue virus type-2 in cell cultures. Subsequent studies have since shown similar results with different types of dengue and chikungunya viruses, indicating a broad-spectrum antiviral effect of Carica papaya against these diseases. In addition to inhibiting viral replication, Carica papaya has also been shown to reduce inflammation caused by these viruses.

The antiviral activity of papaya extract is primarily attributed to its high concentration of carotenoids and flavonoids, which have been shown to possess antiviral properties. Additionally, papain, an enzyme found in the fruit's leaves and seeds, is also believed to be responsible for its antiviral activity. In addition to its antiviral properties, research has demonstrated that papaya extract can also boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells and cytokines. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who are vulnerable to dengue or chikungunya infections due to their weakened immune systems. Another potential benefit of using papaya extract for these viral infections is that it may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

For instance, one study found that patients who took papaya extract experienced fewer side effects than those who did consume it. Furthermore, another study found that taking papaya extract reduced fever duration in patients with dengue fever by almost half compared with those who did consume it. Finally, taking papaya extract may also reduce the risk of complications associated with these viral infections. Studies have found that taking the extract can reduce the risk of developing severe forms of dengue or chikungunya by up to 50%. Its ability to inhibit virus replication as well as boost immunity makes it a promising natural remedy for these viral infections. Additionally, taking this extract may reduce symptoms severity and duration as well as lower the risk of complications associated with them.

The potential therapeutic use of Carica papaya for antiviral activity against dengue and chikungunya is a potential area of research, however, there are some potential risks associated with its use as well. The most significant risk is that the plant extract may interact with other medications, leading to unexpected sideeffects. Additionally, the plant extract has not been thoroughly tested in humans yet, so it is unknown what the long-term effects may be. As such, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using Carica papaya for any medical purpose. Additionally, the plant extract may contain allergens that can cause adverse reactions in certain individuals. In addition, the extract should always be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional who can monitor for any adverse reactions or interactions with other medications.