While it has long been speculated that papaya has the ability to fight against cancer, a group of Japanese researchers led by University of Florida researcher Nam Dang found that extracts from dried papaya leaves boost the production of key molecules which fight against different types of cancerous tumors including breast, liver and lung.

According to the researchers, papaya increases the production of Th1-type cytokines which helps regulate the immune system. Researchers found that the anticancer effect on the harmful cells was stronger when the dosage of the papaya extract was increased.
The extract was exposed to 10 different cancerous tumors and the researchers found that it was effective in slowing down the cell growth in all the tumors. 

The details of the study appear in the February 17 issue of the Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Papaya is often called food fits for Gods. It is rich in carotenes, vitamin C, flavonoids, the B vitamins, folate and pantothenic acid as well as the minerals, potassium and magnesium; and fiber. If the findings of the above study are true, then it may be one of the best fruits available to man.

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