If you’re exploring natural ways to care for your hair, you may have come across a popular remedy making waves online: papaya leaf tea or oil for supporting healthy hair and possibly reducing early grays. While no remedy can reverse white hair overnight, some traditional practices suggest that papaya leaves may help nourish the scalp, strengthen roots, and support healthy hair appearance over time.

Let’s take a closer look at what papaya leaves contain—and how people are using them in their hair care routines.

What’s in Papaya Leaves?

Papaya leaves are rich in nutrients and plant compounds that are believed to support hair and skin health, including:

• •  C and E – Antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress on hair follicles
  • Papain and alkaloids – Natural enzymes that may support scalp health
  • Iron and calcium – Trace minerals linked to stronger hair and reduced breakage
  • Antifungal properties – May help keep the scalp clean and reduce dandruff