Papain & Papaya Enzymes: Health Benefits & Uses

Papaya has been used for various medicinal purposes since the mid-1700s. Papaya contains several enzymes, of which papain is the most recognized and most used.

Identification

• Papayas are large, pear-shaped fruits with pink flesh and green or yellow skin. They contain black seeds that are edible but have a bitter, peppery taste. They are native to Mexico and Central America.

Papain

• Papain is used as the basis of medicines that clot wounds and as a way to counter jellyfish toxins.

Benefits

• Papaya enzymes are beneficial for treating digestive disorders and also act as an anti-inflammatory.

Vitamins

• Papaya enzymes are high in Vitamins A, C and E; folate; and potassium. They are an antioxidant that can counter the damage done by free radicals.

Side Effects

• There are no side effects associated with papaya if used in appropriate doses. If you've taken too much, you could have hives, itching, a swollen tongue and/or difficulty breathing.

Considerations

• Papaya enzymes shouldn't be used by someone with a bleeding disorder.