Papayas are harvested from a tropical tree that grows up to 25 feet tall, according to Medicinal Herb Info. The tree originated in the tropical areas of Central and South America, but is now cultivated in tropical areas all over the world. Before beginning to take papaya enzymes or any herbal remedy for indigestion, consult with your health care provider.
Papain & Indigestion
The World's Healthiest Foods website explains that papain is the primary medicinal and digestive enzyme contained in the papaya. It has been used for many years in traditional folk medicine to treat digestive problems, indigestion and upset stomach from eating too many rich foods. The site reports that papain is also useful as prevention for heart disease, as an anti-inflammatory, to support the immune system, to promote lung health, to prevent macular degeneration and to help prevent rheumatoid arthritis.
Research
A study published in the December 2009 edition of the Journal of Medicinal Food describes research on papain in treating stomach ulcers. Although the study, conducted by A. C. Ezike, et al, was small, it does seem to suggest that papain may be effective in treating stomach ulcers and other digestion issues. This research seems to give credence to the theory that papaya enzymes are useful for treating digestion problems, too.
Possible Side Effects
HealthSquare.com lists several unlikely but possible side effects when taking papain supplements. They are stomach or abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, slow heartbeat or severe drowsiness. These side effects are considered rare, but they do occur in some people. Eating ripe papayas is considered quite safe on the other hand.
Forms Used
The digestive and health benefits of papayas can be obtained by any one of the available forms, says the World's Healthiest Foods website. Papaya enzyme supplements are available, or you can eat the raw, fresh fruit to get the enzymes. Papaya is also easily found in capsule, tablet, dried slices, frozen fruit, juice and tea bag form. If you have an upset stomach or problems with digestion, the answer may just be to add papaya to your menu.
Consideration
Drugs.com warns of a potentially serious problem for a few people who want to eat papayas or take papaya enzymes. It's an allergic reaction very similar to latex allergy. Anyone with a known latex allergy should avoid papayas. Allergic reactions can happen even if the person has been exposed before with no reaction. Watch for signs of swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat when using papaya. If any of these occur, stop the exposure and contact your health care provider.
