Papaya extract slows cancer growth

A new study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggests that compounds from papaya may help fight cancer.

The study led by Dr. Nam Dang at the University of Florida and colleagues from Japan shows that a papaya extract slows the growth of in vitro cancer cells.

The researchers say the papaya extract seems to help the regulation of the body's immune system and does not harm the normal or healthy cells.

Papaya is used by indigenous people in Australia and Vietnam, Dang is cited as saying in a press release by the university.

The researchers also report a papaya leaf extract slows the proliferation of 10 types of cancer cultured cancer cells including cancers of the breast, cervix, liver and pancreas.

A health observer who was not involved in the study said that proteinases high in papaya may be active agents that help fight cancer cells.

Reports say papaya fiber can also bind to cancer-causing toxins and reduce cancer risk.  

By Jimmy Downs