Papayas contain the enzyme papain, which has been used in cooking, medicine and cosmetics. There is more papain in unripe papayas than in ripe ones. If the fruit isn't available, most health food stores have papaya enzyme supplements.
Insect Sting Treatment
Papaya enzymes have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in the treatment of insect and jellyfish stings.
Injury Treatment
The use of papaya enzymes can help control the swelling from injuries and surgery as research indicates in double blind trials.
Digestive Aid
Papaya enzymes help digestion by helping to break down the proteins and fats in food. The enzymes promote bowel regularity and assist in removing toxins from the colon. Eating more foods with digestive enzymes such as papaya or pineapple can help relieve some of the symptoms of cystic fibrosis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Fights Food Sensitivities
The anti-inflammatory qualities of papaya enzymes help protect the body from many food sensitivities.
Meat Tenderizer
Enzymes from the papaya have been used in commercial meat tenderizers because they aid in breaking down the muscle tissue in the meat.
Skin Condition Treatment
Papain from papayas can help people with eczema, acne, stretch marks, scars, fungus infections and other skin conditions.
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