Can male papaya flowers cure coughs?

Ask:

I've heard that male papaya flowers have medicinal properties, including treating respiratory illnesses. I would appreciate more detailed information from the doctor.

Nguyen Ha ( Hanoi )

Traditional medicine practitioner Bui Dac Sang, from the Hanoi Traditional Medicine Association, replied:

The male papaya tree, also known as "ca lao" or "phan qua thu," has a very bitter taste, is neutral in nature, and is non-toxic. The flowers of the male papaya tree, harvested from male papaya plants, have long been used as a medicinal herb to treat various ailments, particularly well-known for treating coughs. Furthermore, the high content of vitamins and antioxidants in male papaya flowers is effective against many other diseases. Specifically, some remedies include:

Treating coughs and bronchitis:

15g of male papaya flowers, 10g of fresh lemon seeds, 3 teaspoons of honey, and 15g of *Kỳ dương thảo* (a type of herb). Blend all the ingredients except the honey until smooth, then put the mixture into a jar. Pour in the honey and mix well. Use this mixture whenever you have a cough or bronchitis. Take one teaspoonful at a time and suck on it to significantly reduce symptoms.

Treating a sore throat:

15g of male papaya flowers, 10g of Rhus chinensis, 10g of Ophiopogon japonicus root, 10g of lemon balm leaves. Put all ingredients into a small bowl, add a little salt, steam until cooked, then mash. Take 2-3 times a day, swallowing the liquid gradually.

Treating bronchitis and hoarseness:

15g of male papaya flowers, 15g of chives, 10g of lemon seeds, 20ml of cooled boiled water. Crush the herbs with the water. Add a little honey or sugar, and drink in three portions throughout the day. Use for several days.

Treating coughs caused by sore throats:

15g of male papaya flowers, 10g of Rhus chinensis, 10g of Ophiopogon japonicus root, 10g of lemon balm leaves. Put all ingredients into a small bowl, add a little salt, steam with rice, then mash. Take 2-3 times a day, swallowing the liquid gradually, for 3-5 days.

It is especially important to note that this herb should absolutely not be used by pregnant women because the flowers contain papain, which can cause miscarriage, and high doses can affect the fetus. Patients should not arbitrarily use male papaya flowers without thoroughly researching this herb and consulting a doctor.

Source: https://www.baogiaothong.vn/hoa-du-du-duc-co-the-chua-ho-192240531102537058.htm