Published Paper Details:

Thrombocytopenia, characterized by a reduced platelet count, is a critical haematological condition associated with increased risk of bleeding commonly associated with diseases such as dengue fever and chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression, posing significant risks of bleeding and morbidity. Carica papaya leaf extract (CPLE) has emerged as a promising natural therapeutic agent due to its potential to elevate platelet counts effectively. This review synthesizes current clinical and experimental evidence regarding the efficacy, mechanisms, and safety of papaya leaf extract in thrombocytopenia management. Studies demonstrate that CPLE administration accelerates platelet recovery by upregulating genes involved in hematopoiesis, including ALOX12 and PTAFR, and enhances megakaryocyte activity, thereby promoting thrombopoiesis. Clinical trials in dengue and chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia patients report significant platelet count increases, reduced hospital stays, and fewer transfusion requirements compared to controls. The review synthesizes data on efficacy, optimal dosing, formulation (e.g., juice, tablets, capsules), and safety profile. While clinical evidence, particularly in dengue-induced thrombocytopenia, While findings indicate a beneficial role for CPLE as an accessible, cost-effective adjunct therapy, limitations including variable dosing regimens and small sample sizes highlight the need for large-scale randomized controlled trials to establish standardized protocols and confirm long-term safety. This comprehensive review concludes by summarizing the current scientific consensus, highlighting existing knowledge gaps, and proposing directions for future research to fully establish CPLE as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for thrombocytopenia and encourages further research to optimize its clinical application.