The papaya fruit originates in central and south America and is cultivated year round. The fruit, seeds and other parts of the papaya tree contain the enzyme papain. Papain is often extracted for a variety of oral, topical, food and cosmetic uses. Seek the advice of a physician or health provider before using papain to treat or cure any disease or disorder.
Oral Use
Papain and chymopapain are two naturally occurring proteolytic enzymes found in papaya, according to research from WHFoods. Papaya enzymes are considered digestive enzymes because of their ability to promote digestion. Research from Great View Chemicals reports that individuals who suffer from pancreatic diseases are often prescribed oral papain because they cannot produce natural digestive enzymes. The NutraSanus Database reports that papain has a soothing effect on the stomach by reducing bloating and chronic indigestion. Besides aiding digestion, papain has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and improve healing. Individuals suffering from inflammatory diseases such as asthma, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis have found relief from papaya enzymes, according to WHFoods. Papaya enzyme supplements are commonly sold in a capsule or chewable form.
Topical Use
Topical papain is often used for certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, according to Great Vista Chemicals. The enzyme has been reported to remove burn tissue and warts, promote skin healing, and help treat ringworm because of its unique ability to break down protein. Papain is often found in topical prescription drugs that help reduce cold sores and relieve herpes complications. Topical papaya enzymes are also used to treat burns and reduce swelling following trauma because it reduces inflammation.
Food Use
The juice of papaya is rubbed over meat because it serves as a meat tenderizer. Papaya juice is rich in papaya enzymes, such as papain, that break down protein and make it an effective tenderizer according to Online Family Doctor. Papain is often used in the production of oyster sauce in Japan and as an ingredient in some chewing gums. CBS Brew reports that papaya enzymes are also used in the beer brewing process because of its ability to hydrolyze protein during fermentation.
Cosmetic Use
The enzyme papain is also used in a number of cosmetic creams and lotions because of its exfoliating properties. Dermaxime database reports that papain is particularly beneficial for restoring damaged skin, and supports smooth and healthier skin. Papain also reduces brown spots caused by harmful rays of sunlight.
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