It’s no secret that dengue has been an ever-present threat in tropical Singapore. In fact, The Straits Times reported that dengue cases in Singapore crossed the 8,000 mark in the first five months of 2022 – exceeding the number of infections reported in the whole of 2021.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) has also reported a 17% increase in the Aedes aegypti mosquito population in the community this year, likely due to the warm, rainy and humid weather in recent months.

Dengue fever symptoms include fever, fatigue, headaches, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and skin rashes. Additionally, one’s blood platelets – tiny blood cells that help the body form clots to stop bleeding – can reach dangerously low levels.

With that in mind, how do you speed up recovery if you or your family come down with the dreaded virus?

How papaya leaf extracts may aid dengue recovery

Well, growing research suggests that the papaya leaf may be beneficial in dengue treatment. In particular, supporting blood platelet count recovery and reducing hospital stay in dengue patients.

A 2016 study by The Journal of the Associations of Physicians of India found that the Carica papaya leaf extract (CPLE) significantly increases the platelet count in patients with thrombocytopenia associated with dengue, with fewer side effects and good tolerability.

Additionally, a Malaysian randomized control trial showed that Carica papaya leaf extract may benefit platelet count increase in the recovery phase of dengue fever, and described the genes related to this effect.

It also seems that the papaya leaf may play a role in general viral illness recovery by boosting immune support. Papaya leaves contain phenolic compounds, papain, and alkaloids that potentially enhance the body’s immunity. They are also a rich source of various vitamins and antioxidants that assist the body’s metabolism. These include carotenes and flavonoids; the B group vitamins folate and pantothenic acid; and the minerals, potassium, copper, and magnesium. All in all, the enzyme, vitamin and phyto-rich nutrients of the fruit and leaves provide an excellent nutrient profile.

Plant compounds like those in the papaya leaf also boast medicinal effects. In fact, several anti-cancer agents that are established therapies in the clinical setting are from botanicals.

Harnessing the papaya leaf’s restorative effects

Given the restorative effects of papaya leaves, how exactly does one harness its benefits – in the context of dengue recovery?

Traditionally, one would have to obtain the leaves, wash them, cut off the stem, boil them, add them to a blender and juice them to obtain the extract.

Understandably, busy parents don’t exactly have time for this. As such, consider a supplement like Akesi’s Wellness’ Bio-Fermented Papaya Leaf Tonic as your family’s immune go-to support. The nutritious probiotic tonic contains Carica papaya fruit and leaf, to help your family recover from viral illnesses like dengue as well as digestive issues.

In addition to being a multi-species probiotic, Akesi’s Papaya Tonic is a rich source of important plant nutrients called polyphenols. Polyphenols are typically found in fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and have been recognised for their antioxidant properties and probable role in the prevention of diseases associated with oxidative stress, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. Polyphenols may also benefit the gut by increasing gut immunoglobulins and redg populations of more harmful bacteria.

In Akesi’s Papaya Tonic, polyphenols are nutritionally enhanced through the process of fermentation. The end result is a super-charged tonic that supports your family’s digestive health and overall well-being.

While the papaya leaf is typically bitter, the addition of papaya fruit and pomegranate work well to create a refreshing tonic with a subtle, slightly tart flavor. It can be taken straight or enjoyed diluted in still or sparkling water.

To further improve your family’s immunity, consider other supplements in Akesi’s Bio-Fermented range, all of which feature the power combination of probiotics and polyphenols. These include the Berry Spritzer, a delicious antioxidant-rich tonic with ingredients like blueberry, cranberry and acai berry.

Also, the Turmeric Tonic, which features a spicy taste and anti-inflammatory properties. All tonics can be taken with or without food and at any time of the day – making them perfect for busy families looking to include immune support into their diet.

For more information on Akesi Wellness’ Bio-Fermented range of tonics, visit their website.

Use code TNAP on akesiwellness.com to receive a FREE 100ml tonic valued at $18 with any order. No minimum purchase. Free local shipping.

This post is brought to you by Akesi.

By Rebecca Wong.

Giveaway Alert

We are giving away 10 bottles of Akesi’s family-friendly probiotic Berry Spritzer worth $58 each!

➡️ How to participate:

1. Fill in this form below

2. Like and Follow Akesi Wellness & The New Age Parents Facebook Pages.

3. Like and share this post (Remember to set the post to public so that we can see your share).

🇸🇬 Valid for participants residing in SG only.

⏳ Giveaway period: Till 31 August 2022

✔️ Terms and Conditions:

• Winner will have to self-collect the prize from New Age Consulting office at Tradehub 21 (on Wed & Thu only with prior appointment) or Queenstown MRT (appointment to be made at least 1 week in advance).
• By participating in the giveaway, it means you agree to the terms and conditions.

Terms and conditions apply. Please also read our Privacy Policy.

For more contests and giveaways, go to The New Age Parents Contest Page.

* * * * *

Like what you see here? Get parenting tips and stories straight to your inbox! Join our mailing list here.

Want to be heard 👂 and seen 👀 by over 100,000 parents in Singapore? We can help! Leave your contact here and we’ll be in touch.