Extract of Papaya Leaf to Inhibit Osteomyelitis in Male Wistar Rats Induced by Staphylococcus aureus

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection predominantly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, accounting for 30–60% of cases. Its incidence remains unclear globally, and data in Indonesia are limited. Alternative treatments using medicinal plants, such as papaya leaves, are being explored due to their antibacterial properties. This study aimed to determine the effect of papaya leaf extract on inhibiting osteomyelitis progression in male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by Staphylococcus aureus. This experimental study used a Randomized Controlled Trial with a Post-Test Only Control Group Design. A total of 35 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, S. aureus induction, S. aureus + cephalexin, and two treatment groups receiving papaya leaf extract at doses of 100 mg/kg of body weight and 300 mg/kg of body weight. Data were analyzed using normality, homogeneity, ANOVA, LSD, and effect size tests. Papaya leaf extract at both doses inhibited osteomyelitis progression, with the 300 mg/kg of body weight dose showing the most significant effect. This was indicated by a reduced ratio of mononuclear to histiocyte cells and a large effect size (Cohen’s d). Papaya leaf extract demonstrates potential antibacterial activity against osteomyelitis and may serve as an alternative therapeutic approach. Further studies are recommended to explore its clinical application and mechanism of action.