Abstract

*Abhishek Parasar and Priyanka Choudhury

ABSTRACT

Papaya is a powerhouse of nutrients and is available throughout the year. It is rich source of three powerful antioxidant vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E. the minerals, magnesium and potassium, vitamin B pentothenic acid and folate and fibre. In addition to all this, it contains a digestive enzyme called papain that effectively treat causes of trauma, allergies and sports injuries. The fruit is an excellent source of beta-carotene that prevents damage caused by free radicals that may cause some forms of cancer. Antioxidants are substances that may protect your cells against the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are molecules produced when your body breaks down food, or by environmental exposures like tobacco smoke and radiation. Free radicals can damage cells, and may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Studies suggest that a diet high in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. A plant-based diet protects against chronic oxidative stress-related diseases. Immunostimulants are considered as an alternative for antibiotics, which will boost the immunesystem of the cultured organism, thus effectively countering the assault of pathogens. The use of plant materials as immunostimulant will be an eco-friendly approach for the control of pathogens. This review focuses on the antioxidant and immunostimulant activities of papaya leaf extract.