Dengue: Health Ministry looking into producing papaya leaf extract capsules - Dr Hilmi

The Health Ministry is conducting a study to produce papaya leaf extract in capsule form to treat dengue fever.

Deputy Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya said based on initial research carried out by the ministry, it was found papaya leaf extract could raise the level of platelets in dengue fever victims faster.

"Taking a juice drink of the product based on papaya leaves as an alternative treatment for dengue fever is believed to be able to expedite recovery for dengue patients.

"As such, the ministry is conducting a study to produce the extract in capsule form to widen alternative treatment methods for dengue patients," he told reporters after opening the Baiti Jannati Programme of Tenaga Nasional Berhad, at Kampung Rusa, Balik Pulau, Saturday.

He said the ministry would also cooperate with the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) to carry out papaya tree planting for a regular supply of papaya leaves.

"The papaya crop will be used to produce juice or capsules from the extract for the treatment of dengue patients," he said.