You may already enjoy adding papaya to your fruit salad or just eating it by itself. But papaya is also a very powerful digestive aid and commonly used medicinal plant too, according to Medicinal Herb Info. The fruit grows high in the papaya tree that reaches at least 25 feet in height and is native to tropical regions of the world. Before you begin to take papaya enzymes to help treat heartburn, consult your health care provider for instructions.
Papaya Uses
Papayas contain a digestive enzyme called papain that is found in the fruit, seeds and leaves of the papaya plant. This enzyme, also known as vegetable pepsin, is often used to treat digestive problems, says Drugs.com. Papaya is also useful for lung health, prevention of heart disease, boosting the immune system, anti-inflammatory effects and protection against macular degeneration and rheumatoid arthritis, says WHFoods.com.
Research
Papaya's enzyme papain has been studied for its anti-cancer potential and its ability to treat ulcers. Studies reported on the PubMed.gov site seem to support the use of papaya enzymes for these uses. An article describing the research also states that the richest concentration of papain is in the unripe fruit. It's extracted for use as supplements.
Possible Side Effects
The Drugs.com site warns that pregnant and breast-feeding women should not use papaya enzymes due to possible harm to the unborn or nursing baby. Some animal studies have shown papain to be toxic for rat fetuses. HealthSquare.com says that for most people, papaya is considered quite safe, however, a few rare side effects may occur for some people. These are severe drowsiness, slow heartbeat, nausea, vomiting and stomach and abdominal pain. The site also warns of a rare, but dangerous, allergic reaction to papaya in some people. Watch for signs of swelling in the mouth or throat, and if these occur contact emergency help right away.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to papaya's enzymes that help digestion, the fruit contains a wealth of nutritional benefits too. WHFoods.com reports that papayas are rich in dietary fiber, folate, potassium and vitamins C, E, A and K. The site suggests finding new and interesting ways to add papaya to your balanced diet for the many health benefits it has to offer.
Forms Used
When choosing the best papayas to buy, WHFoods.com suggests buying fruits with a reddish-orange skin. These will be ready to eat right away. If you want to get papayas for later use, choose fruits with patches of yellow. Then leave them at room temperature to finish ripening before eating. The site also says that papaya is available as juice, frozen fruit, tea and dried slices. Papain supplements are also available.
