Which Juice Increases Platelets in Blood? Exploring Natural Options

November 24, 2025 •

5 min read

According to a 2013 study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, papaya leaf juice was shown to significantly accelerate the rate of increase in platelet count among patients with dengue fever. This evidence has fueled interest in which juice increases platelets in blood naturally, offering a supportive role alongside medical treatment for conditions like thrombocytopenia.

Quick Summary

This guide explores various juices widely believed to support healthy blood platelet levels, detailing key nutrients like vitamins and iron that are essential for their production. It covers popular options such as papaya leaf juice, pomegranate, and nutrient-rich vegetable blends, highlighting their potential benefits and supported scientific findings.

Key Points

Papaya Leaf Juice: Strong scientific evidence suggests its effectiveness in increasing platelet count, especially in cases of dengue fever.
Pomegranate Juice: Rich in iron and antioxidants, it supports blood health and can help boost platelet levels.
Nutrient-Rich Blends: Combining beetroot, carrot, and leafy greens provides essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and Vitamin K for overall blood cell health.
Vitamin C is Crucial: Juices from oranges, amla, and kiwi provide Vitamin C, which aids in iron absorption and protects platelets.
Not a Cure-All: Natural remedies are supportive; always consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for low platelet count.

Understanding the Role of Platelets and Nutrients

Platelets, or thrombocytes, are tiny, colorless blood cells that help your body form clots to stop bleeding. A low platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia, can be caused by various factors including viral infections like dengue, certain types of anemia, or chemotherapy treatments. To support healthy platelet production, a diet rich in specific vitamins and minerals is crucial. Juices can be an effective and easy way to deliver these nutrients, but they should be used as a supplement to, and not a replacement for, professional medical advice.

Juices Known to Support Platelet Count

Several juices derived from nutrient-rich sources are frequently cited for their ability to help boost platelet levels. These typically contain high concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants that play a vital role in blood cell formation.

Papaya Leaf Juice

Papaya leaf juice is arguably the most well-known and researched remedy for low platelet counts, particularly in cases of dengue fever. Research has shown that extracts from the Carica papaya leaf can significantly increase platelet and red blood cell counts. It is believed to work by enhancing the expression of genes that regulate platelet production.

How to prepare: Wash and blend a handful of fresh papaya leaves with a small amount of water. Strain the mixture to get the concentrated juice.
Taste: The juice is very bitter and can be mixed with honey to make it more palatable.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate is a rich source of iron, antioxidants, and vitamin C, all of which are beneficial for blood health. Its iron content supports red and white blood cell production, and the antioxidants help fight inflammation and support immune function.

How to prepare: Extract the juice from fresh pomegranate seeds using a juicer or blender. It can be consumed on its own or mixed with other juices.

Wheatgrass Juice

Wheatgrass juice is often referred to as a superfood due to its high chlorophyll content, which has a molecular structure similar to hemoglobin. Some studies have suggested that wheatgrass can help increase red blood cell and platelet counts.

How to prepare: Extract the juice from fresh wheatgrass and mix it with a little lemon juice to improve flavor and boost vitamin C intake.

Beetroot Juice

Rich in iron and folate (vitamin B9), beetroot juice can aid in the production of red blood cells and may help improve platelet count. It is also known for its antioxidant properties.

How to prepare: Blend fresh beetroot with carrots for a nutrient-dense juice.

Citrus Juice (Orange, Amla, Lemon)

Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and is essential for the production and function of platelets. Vitamin C also enhances the body's absorption of iron. Indian gooseberry (amla) is another excellent source of vitamin C.

How to prepare: Freshly squeeze oranges, lemons, or amla to create a refreshing and platelet-friendly beverage.

Comparison of Platelet-Boosting Juices


Feature	Papaya Leaf Juice	Pomegranate Juice	Wheatgrass Juice	Beetroot Juice
Key Nutrients	Acetogenins, flavonoids, carotenes	Iron, Vitamin C, antioxidants	Chlorophyll, amino acids, vitamins	Iron, folate (Vitamin B9), antioxidants
Scientific Support	Strong, particularly for dengue-related thrombocytopenia	Several studies suggest efficacy	Some studies show potential effect on blood cells	Often recommended for general blood health
Taste	Very bitter; often mixed with honey	Sweet and tart	Grassy, earthy; often mixed with lemon	Earthy, sweet after juicing
Common Use Case	Acute platelet drop, especially in dengue	General blood health and anemia	Overall blood cell support	Iron deficiency and anemia support

Recipes for Nutrient-Rich Juices

Here are some simple juice recipes to help support your platelet count naturally.

Papaya Leaf and Honey Blend

Take 2-3 medium-sized papaya leaves, wash them thoroughly, and chop into small pieces.
Blend the chopped leaves with a cup of water until you get a smooth paste.
Strain the liquid using a fine sieve or cheesecloth to extract the juice.
Mix 2 tablespoons of this juice with a teaspoon of honey to reduce the bitterness. Drink twice daily.

Pomegranate and Beetroot Juice

Take one medium beetroot, peeled and chopped.
Add one cup of fresh pomegranate seeds.
Blend with half a cup of water until smooth.
Strain and serve immediately for a potent iron and folate boost.

Spinach, Orange, and Carrot Juice

Blend one cup of fresh spinach leaves with one peeled orange and one chopped carrot.
Add a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency.
This vitamin C and K-rich juice supports both platelet production and function.

How It Works: The Science Behind Platelet-Supporting Juices

Various nutrients and compounds found in these natural juices play a crucial role in the production and health of platelets.

Vitamin C: Found abundantly in oranges, kiwi, and amla, vitamin C helps improve iron absorption, which is vital for producing healthy blood cells. It also protects platelets from oxidative damage by acting as an antioxidant.
Iron: Beetroot, pomegranate, and spinach are excellent sources of iron. This mineral is a core component of hemoglobin and is essential for bone marrow function, where platelets are made.
Folate (Vitamin B9): Essential for cell division, folate is a key ingredient for producing new blood cells, including platelets. It can be found in spinach, oranges, and fortified cereals.
Vitamin K: Green leafy vegetables like spinach are rich in Vitamin K, which is necessary for proper blood clotting. It helps maintain optimal platelet levels and function.

Conclusion

While a variety of juices from papaya leaf, pomegranate, beetroot, and nutrient-rich greens are known to support platelet count, it's crucial to approach their consumption as a supplementary measure rather than a primary treatment. The evidence for papaya leaf extract is particularly strong in the context of dengue fever, but a balanced diet rich in vitamins C, K, folate, and iron is vital for overall blood health. As with any health concern, especially severe conditions like thrombocytopenia, consulting a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is essential before incorporating these remedies. For more information on the effectiveness of papaya leaf extract, you can read more in this clinical study at the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, several clinical studies have shown that papaya leaf extract can significantly increase platelet counts, particularly in patients suffering from dengue fever. It is widely used as a traditional remedy and supported by research.

To prepare, wash a few fresh papaya leaves, blend them with a small amount of water, and then strain the mixture. The juice is bitter, so you can mix it with a spoonful of honey for taste.

Pomegranate juice is rich in iron and antioxidants, which are beneficial for blood cell production and overall blood health. While supportive, it is one of several juices that contribute to a healthy diet for maintaining platelet levels.

Some sources suggest avoiding beverages that may have a blood-thinning effect, though more research is needed. Examples include cranberry juice, tonic water (containing quinine), and excessive alcohol.

The time it takes can vary depending on the underlying cause of low platelets and the individual's condition. In some dengue cases, papaya leaf juice has shown an effect within a few days. For other causes, it may be a longer, more gradual process. Always follow medical guidance.

Yes, some of these juices, like papaya leaf extract, have been used in children, especially during dengue fever. However, the dosage and suitability should always be discussed with a pediatrician or doctor before administering.

The best approach is a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods rich in essential vitamins (like C, K, B9, and B12) and iron. Incorporating these specific juices is a helpful supplement, but not a replacement for a diverse diet and professional medical care.