The papaya tree, scientifically called Carica papaya, mainly grows in Mexico and some parts of Northern South America. It is one of the most popularly grown crops in the world. The fruit, leaves and seeds of this tree are widely used for both medicinal and culinary purposes. Papaya leaf contains a number of powerful natural compounds and has plenty of medicinal properties of its own.
Among other things, it contains vitamins E, A, C and B, as well as minerals such as iron, phosphorus and calcium. It also consists of many phytochemicals such as tannins, saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids that cleanse the blood and increase circulation. Papaya leaves have cholesterol-lowering and anticancer attributes. Also, they may assist in the management of stomach troubles and skin disorders. One of the many benefits of papaya leaf extract is its ability to improve the health of your hair. Read on to learn about how this natural extract benefits your hair.
Benefits of Papaya Leaf Extract for Hair
There are many different ways in which papaya leaf extract benefits your hair. Loaded with various minerals, vitamins and enzymes, it is used in several different hair care formulations, such as conditioners and shampoos. Papaya leaf extract helps in promoting hair growth, strengthening the hair shaft and preventing issues like thinning, dandruff and balding.
Topically applying papaya leaf juices and masks can be quite helpful in improving the health of your scalp and improving hair growth. According to research, oxidative stress is a key contributor to hair loss. Papaya leaf is loaded with compounds like vitamin E and flavonoids with strong antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. This leads to better hair growth and regeneration.
Moreover, excessive growth of a fungus known as Makassezia can cause dandruff and hinder hair growth. With the help of its strong antifungal properties, papaya leaf prevents this dandruff-causing fungus from growing, supporting scalp and hair health. Papaya leaf extract serves as an important ingredient in several anti-dandruff medications and shampoos to keep flakiness caused by dandruff in check.
Additionally, papaya leaves contain an alkaloid called karpain that thoroughly eliminates excess sebum, dirt and chemical accumulation from hair and scalp. This ensures that blocked pores can be cleared up, and there is no breeding opportunity for bacteria, speeding up hair growth. Moreover, papaya leaf extract can be combined with coconut milk, hibiscus or honey and used on dull hair as a conditioner. It softens dry and coarse hair when applied regularly.
How to Make Papaya Leaf Extract for Hair?
If you want to use papaya leaf extract for hair care, one of the easiest and most effective ways to do it is by making papaya leaf juice. To make this juice, wash the papaya leaves thoroughly with drinking water. Use a juicer to blend them thoroughly. Collect this juice into small bottles and store them in the refrigerator. You can either apply this juice directly to your hair and scalp or consume it like other healthy smoothies (it is best to consume it in the next 24 hours or so).
Conclusion
Papaya is a widely grown plant that has long been used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Papaya leaf is a great natural hair care remedy that can help boost your hair’s health. Papaya leaf extract stimulates hair growth, reduces hair loss, treats dandruff and gives your hair a shiny appearance. Being an all-natural solution, it is absolutely safe for all hair types.
