The Anthelminthic Activity of Papaya (Carica papaya) Seed Extract Against Gastrointestinal Worms

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The World Health Organization (WHO) latest estimates indicates that more than 880 million children are in need of treatment for intestinal worms. These parasites also cause serious economic losses in livestock farming. Standard synthetic drugs have always been considered the most effective way of controlling infections caused by the worms, but the truth is that these drugs are expensive, often unavailable and some even show side effects unlike the organic ones (anthelmintic) that are cost effective and doesn't cause any significant damage to the host. In view of this, an attempt has been made to study the potency of Carica papaya. The researchers aim to know and show the anthelmintic activity of papaya seed extract.

METHODS

The researchers mixed the air-dried black papaya seeds with ethanol, water and Hydrochloric acid to make the solution. Aqueous ethanol solutions of papaya seed extracts with different concentrations (25%, 50% and 100%) were prepared. The extract was made using classical maceration wherein the solution is to be shook for consecutive days and has the solvent: solid ratio of 4:1. There were six groups of earthworms, consisting of three worms each group. The extract was dropped to the worms using a dropper and the time it took to kill the worms were recorded.

RESULTS

The extract showed great potency even at low concentrations. It took shorter time than the reference conventional drug which is the one that is commonly used. Specifically, the 25% extract killed the first worm in approximately 2.383 and the other in 2.667 minutes, while the 50% extract took 2.2 and 3.933 minutes to kill both worms and finally, the 100% extract only took 1.85 minutes to kill the first and 1.85 to kill the second worms.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the observations done in the study, the papaya (Carica papaya) seed extract indicated anthelmintic properties. It paralyzed and killed the worms quick. Also, in just a few minutes, the extract showed its potential as the better anthelmintic than the standard drugs. Results also showed that there is a significant difference between the times it takes to kill the worms. The concentrated extract revealed the best anthelmintic activity. But notwithstanding, the 25% and 50% solutions are all effective in eliminating intestinal parasites or worms.