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Papaya
Papaya
Papaya is a juicy fruit rich in vitamin C and A. In Ayurveda it is also called as “Erandakarkati”. The fruit and all other parts of the plant are known to have medicinal properties. Papaya has antifertility, antihypertensive, lipid lowering, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It helps to manage constipation, hyperacidity, digestive, heart and skin problems. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which is used to tenderize meat. Sometimes consumption of lot of Papaya can cause flatulence[2-4].
What are the synonyms of Papaya?
Carica papaya, Madhukarkati, Gopalakarkati, Papeyaa, Pappiyaa, Melon tree, Pawpaw, Erandakaakadi, Papaiyu, Papita, Papitaa, Pirangi, Pappaay, Karmaasu, Karumatti, Papaayaa, Papai, Erandakharbujaa, Pappali, Boppayi, Bobbaasi, Paringi[1]
What is the source of Papaya?
Plant Based
Benefits of Papaya
Modern Science View
Papaya might help in managing indigestion problems like constipation and bloating. This is due to the presence of chymopapain and papain in Papaya[13][26].
Ayurvedic View
Indigestion means a state of incomplete process of digestion and the main reason is Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). Papaya helps to correct Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) because of its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Papaya also controls constipation if it is taken in the evening because of its Rechana (laxative) nature.
Tips:
a. Eat Papaya raw fruit according to your taste and requirement.
b. Take it preferably with lunch or dinner to maintain healthy digestion.
Tips:
a. Eat Papaya raw fruit according to your taste and requirement.
b. Take it preferably with lunch or dinner to maintain healthy digestion.
Modern Science View
Papaya may be useful in managing Diabetes due to its hypoglycemic and antioxidant property. The extract of Papaya leaves increases the uptake of glucose and controls blood sugar level. It also stimulates the regeneration of pancreatic beta cells[10][11].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Papaya helps remove Ama and controls aggravated Vata due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This thus helps control high blood sugar level.
Modern Science View
Papaya may be useful in managing parasitic infections due to its antiparasitic property. It inhibits the growth of parasitic worms and expels them from the gastrointestinal tract[13][14].
Ayurvedic View
Intestinal parasites known as krimi in Ayurveda is due to low Agni (weak digestive fire). Use of raw Papaya is useful for removing intestinal parasites because Papaya has Krimighna (anti-worm) property.
Tips:
a. Eat Papaya raw fruit according to your taste and requirement.
b. Take it preferably with lunch or dinner.
Tips:
a. Eat Papaya raw fruit according to your taste and requirement.
b. Take it preferably with lunch or dinner.
Modern Science View
Papaya may be useful in managing cancer due to the presence of papain, lycopene and isothiocyanate. Papain and Lycopene inhibits the formation of cancer cells. Isothiocyanate also inhibits the proliferation and development of cancer cells[9].
How effective is Papaya?
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Diabetes, Indigestionasdf, Parasitic infections
Precautions when using Papaya
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
1. Avoid eating Papaya if you have hypothyroidism[5].
2. Avoid taking Papaya if you are allergic to Papain[5].
2. Avoid taking Papaya if you are allergic to Papain[5].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Consult your doctor while taking Papaya during Breastfeeding[5].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Papaya may decrease blood clotting. So it generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Papaya with antiplatelet drugs.
Patients with diabetes
Important
Modern Science View
Papaya may lower your blood sugar. So it generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Papaya along with antidiabetic drugs[5].
Pregnancy
Important
Modern Science View
Avoid taking Papaya during Pregnancy[5].
Ayurvedic View
Unripe and semi-ripe Papaya should be avoided during pregnancy because it can cause uterine contractions due to its Ushna (hot) and Rechana (laxative) properties. It is better to avoid eating Papaya during the early stages of pregnancy unless it is fully ripe. Women who have had a previous history of abortion and miscarriage are advised to avoid Papaya completely.
FAQs about Papaya precautions
Recommended Dosage of Papaya
- Papaya Churna - ¼- ½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Papaya Juice - 5-6 teaspoon once or twice a day.
- Papaya Tablet - 1-2 Papaya tablets, twice a day.
- Papaya Capsule - 1-2 Papaya capsules, twice a day.
- Papaya Candy - 4-5 candies a day, twice a day.
How to use Papaya
1. Papaya Ripe Fruit
a. Eat Papaya fruit according to your taste and requirement.
b. Take it preferably after 4-5 hours before or after meals.
2. Papaya Leaf Churna
a. Take ¼- ½ teaspoon Papaya leaf churna.
b. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon honey.
c. Have it after lunch and dinner.
3. Papaya (Leaf) Juice
a. Take 5-6 teaspoons of Papaya Juice.
b. Take it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Papaya Tablets
a. Take 1-2 tablets of Papaya.
b. Swallow them with water preferably after meals.
5. Papaya Capsules
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Papaya.
b. Swallow them with water preferably after meals.
6. Papaya (Leaf) Juice
a. Take 5-6 teaspoons of Papaya juice.
b. Take it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
7. Papaya Candy
You can take Papaya candy as per your taste and requirement.
a. Eat Papaya fruit according to your taste and requirement.
b. Take it preferably after 4-5 hours before or after meals.
2. Papaya Leaf Churna
a. Take ¼- ½ teaspoon Papaya leaf churna.
b. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon honey.
c. Have it after lunch and dinner.
3. Papaya (Leaf) Juice
a. Take 5-6 teaspoons of Papaya Juice.
b. Take it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Papaya Tablets
a. Take 1-2 tablets of Papaya.
b. Swallow them with water preferably after meals.
5. Papaya Capsules
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Papaya.
b. Swallow them with water preferably after meals.
6. Papaya (Leaf) Juice
a. Take 5-6 teaspoons of Papaya juice.
b. Take it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
7. Papaya Candy
You can take Papaya candy as per your taste and requirement.
Benefits of Papaya
Modern Science View
Papaya might help in wound healing. This is due to the presence of protease enzymes. It also prevents further infection due to its antibacterial activity. Studies state that applying a Papaya fruit dressing to the edges of a reopened surgical wound reduces healing time and length of hospitalization[25].
Ayurvedic View
Applying Papaya fruit paste helps in quick healing of wound. It decreases swelling and helps in skin restoration due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Papaya fruit pulp or as per your requirement.
b. Add glycerine to it.
c. Apply on the affected area.
d. Let it sit for 1-2 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get quick healing.
Tips:
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Papaya fruit pulp or as per your requirement.
b. Add glycerine to it.
c. Apply on the affected area.
d. Let it sit for 1-2 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get quick healing.
Modern Science View
Studies state that Papaya might be good for gum diseases. Applying medicines containing Papaya extract on periodontal pockets (spaces around teeth) can reduce gum bleeding, plaque and gum inflammation[5].
How effective is Papaya?
Insufficient evidence
Inflammation of gums, Wound infection
Precautions when using Papaya
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Milk (latex) of raw Papaya should be used with rose water if your skin is hypersensitive. This is due to its Tikshna (sharp) and Ushna (hot) potency.
Recommended Dosage of Papaya
- Papaya Powder - ½ - 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Papaya
1. Papaya Powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Papaya seed powder.
b. Add glycerine to it.
c. Apply on the affected area.
d. Leave it at least 3-6 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-2 times a day to get rid of ringworms.
2. Papaya fruit Pulp
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Papaya fruit pulp.
b. Add glycerine to it.
c. Apply to the affected area.
d. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day to get rid of swelling and skin infections.
3. Papaya peel Powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Papaya peel powder.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Apply on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day for effective skin whitening and exfoliation.
4. Milk (latex) of Raw Papaya
a. Take ½ teaspoon milk of Papaya.
b. Apply to the affected area.
c. Do this once or twice a day to get rid of mouth ulcer.
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Papaya seed powder.
b. Add glycerine to it.
c. Apply on the affected area.
d. Leave it at least 3-6 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-2 times a day to get rid of ringworms.
2. Papaya fruit Pulp
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Papaya fruit pulp.
b. Add glycerine to it.
c. Apply to the affected area.
d. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day to get rid of swelling and skin infections.
3. Papaya peel Powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Papaya peel powder.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Apply on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day for effective skin whitening and exfoliation.
4. Milk (latex) of Raw Papaya
a. Take ½ teaspoon milk of Papaya.
b. Apply to the affected area.
c. Do this once or twice a day to get rid of mouth ulcer.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Papaya can be eaten at night as it acts as a laxative and cleans the colon. However, fruits should be avoided at least 4-5 hours after meals. So if you want to have Papaya at night, plan your dinner accordingly.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, you can eat Papaya at night as it helps correct constipation due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
Modern Science View
Papaya contains an enzyme papain which is responsible for skin rejuvenation and exfoliation. This enzyme helps in effective whitening of the skin and gives you a brighter and glowing skin.
Modern Science View
Although the skin of Papaya is non-toxic, it is not advisable to eat. However, Papaya skin is very useful in the cosmetic industry.
Modern Science View
There are various ways by which you can identify whether the Papaya is ripe or not.
1. Check the yellowish red color spots on the skin of Papaya.
2. Check for the tenderness by gently squeezing.
3. You can also smell the fruit to find if its fresh.
1. Check the yellowish red color spots on the skin of Papaya.
2. Check for the tenderness by gently squeezing.
3. You can also smell the fruit to find if its fresh.
Modern Science View
Papaya is used as a natural remedy to improve digestion, constipation, heartburn and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)[6], but consuming Papaya in large amounts might cause intestinal gas.
Ayurvedic View
Papaya helps to correct digestion and remove the waste products from intestine which causes gas. This is because of its Pachan (digestive) and Rechana (laxative) properties.
Modern Science View
No, Papaya does not cause constipation as research suggest that Papaya and the enzymes present in it actually helps to get rid of constipation. It aids proper bowel movements which help to clean the colon[6].
Ayurvedic View
Papaya helps to clean the colon and treat constipation if taken regularly because of its Rechana (laxative) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Papaya is rich in flavonoids that inhibit the growth of Dengue virus. The juice of Papaya leaves has been shown to increase the platelet count[15][16].
Modern Science View
Yes, Papaya can be useful in managing diarrhea due to its anthelmintic property. It inhibits the growth of intestinal parasites[17][18].
Ayurvedic View
Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues from the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Papaya helps to promote low Agni and balances Vata due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This helps control diarrhea. But excessive intake of Papaya should be avoided as it is Rechana (laxative) in nature.
Modern Science View
Yes, Papaya might be useful in controlling inflammation. It inhibits the activity of inflammatory chemicals like histamine and prostaglandins[19].
Modern Science View
Although not enough scientific evidence is available, Papaya is said to manage piles by improving the conditions of constipation[22].
Ayurvedic View
Piles are known as Arsh in Ayurveda which is caused by an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. This leads to the impairment of all the three doshas, mainly Vata. An aggravated Vata causes a low digestive fire, leading to constipation. This causes swelling in the veins in the rectum area leading to pile mass. Regular use of Papaya helps to remove constipation due to its Rechana (laxative). It also gives relief in swelling of pile mass by balancing Vata.
Modern Science View
Papaya is rich in vitamin A and C. It is good for eyesight and can aid in preventing early age blindness in children[23].
Modern Science View
Yes, green Papaya or unripe Papaya contain saponins and cardiac glycosides. They strengthen the heart muscles and prevent heart failure. Certain compounds like glycosides and mineral salts help in maintaining blood sugar level. They also stimulate pancreatic beta cells to release insulin[20].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, green Papaya or unripe Papaya can be eaten because it corrects digestion and reduces Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also helps to control high sugar level caused by Ama.
Modern Science View
Although there is not enough scientific evidence, the intake of Papaya or its flowers in an infusion may induce menstruation[21].
Ayurvedic View
Unripe Papaya has a lot of latex that can induce bleeding because of its Katu (pungent) and Ushna (hot) potency. These properties make it effective against amenorrhoea (absence of menstrual period).
Ayurvedic View
Papaya is good for removing excess oil from the scalp and gives healthy hair. It also helps in controlling dandruff. This is due to its Tikshna (strong) and Ruksha (dry) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Papaya fruit pulp.
b. Add coconut oil and make a paste.
c. Apply on the scalp.
d. Let it sit for 1-2 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Papaya fruit pulp.
b. Add coconut oil and make a paste.
c. Apply on the scalp.
d. Let it sit for 1-2 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week.
Modern Science View
Papaya may be useful in managing skin infections. It is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial activity. It helps in healing by skin regeneration and prevents further infection[24].
Modern Science View
Papaya has antifungal property due to which it inhibits the growth of fungal infections like ringworm[23].
Modern Science View
Yes, Papaya might be useful in controlling swelling. It inhibits the activity of inflammatory chemicals like histamine and prostaglandins that causes pain and swelling[19].
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
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- Verma S, Verma RK, Singh S.Medicinal And Pharmacological Parts Of Carica Papaya: A Review.Indian Journal of Drugs,2017;5(3):88-93.
- Gunde MC, Amnerkar ND.Nutritional, medicinal and pharmacological properties of papaya (Carica papaya linn.): A review.Journal of Innovations in Pharmaceuticals and Biological Sciences.2016:3(1);162-169.
- WebMD.Papaya: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Muss C, Mosgoeller W, Endler T.Papaya preparation (Caricol®) in digestive disorders.Neuro Endocrinol Lett.2013;34(1):38-46.
- Tarun Vij, Yash Prashar.A review on medicinal properties of Carica papaya Linn.Asian Pac J Trop Dis.2015;5(1):1-6.
- Balkrishnan A.Papita.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya.Danik Bhaskar.2017.
- S Fauziya, R Krishnamurthy.Papaya (Carica Papaya): Source material for anticancer.CIBTech Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.2013;2(1):25-34.
- Ogundele AV, Otun KO, Ajiboye A et al.Anti-diabetic efficacy and phytochemical screening of methanolic leaf extract of pawpaw (Carica Papaya) grown in north central Nigeria.J Turkish Chem Soc Sect A Chem.2016;4(1):99-114.
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- Giuliano AR, Siegel EM, Roe DJ et al.Dietary intake and risk of persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: the Ludwig-McGill HPV Natural History Study.J Infect Dis.2003;188(10):1508-1516.
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- Verma NK.A Brief study on Carica Papaya- a review.Int J Curr Pharm Res.2014;2(4):541-550.
- Ahmad N, Fazal H, Ayaz M et al.Dengue fever treatment with Carica Papaya leaves extracts.Asian Pac J Trop Biomed.2011;1(4):330-333.
- Subenthiran S, Choon TC, Cheong KC et al.Carica Papaya leaves juice significantly accelerates the rate of increase in platelet count among patients with dengue fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever.Evidence-based Complement Altern Med.2013;2013:1-7.
- Okeniyi JAO, Ogunlesi TA, Oyelami OA et al.Effectiveness of dried Carica Papaya seeds against human intestinal parasitosis: a pilot study.J Med Food.2007;10(1):194-196.
- Rahul J.An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in Taindol village, district Jhansi, region of Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh, India.Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies.2013;1(5):59-71.
- Amazu L, Azikiwe C, Njoku C et al.Antiinflammatory activity of the methanolic extract of the seeds of Carica Papaya in experimental animals.Asian Pac J Trop Med.2010;3(11):884-886.
- Oloyede OI.Chemical profile of unripe pulp of Carica Papaya.Pakistan J Nutr.2005;4(6):379-381.
- Oduola T, Adeniyi FAA, Ogunyeni EO et al.Antisickling agent in an extract of unripe pawpaw (Carica Papaya): Is it real?Afr J Biotechnol.2006;5(20):1947-1949.
- Ocloo A, Nwokolo NC, Dayie NTKD.Phytochemical characterization and comparative efficacies of crude extracts of Carica Papaya.International Journal of Drug Research and Technology.2012;2(5):399-406.
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- AA Mahmood, K Sidik, I Salmah.Wound healing activity of Carica Papaya L. aqueous leaf extract in rats.International Journal of Molecular Medicine and Advance Sciences.2005;1(4):398-401.
- Murthy MB, Murthy BK and Bhave S.Comparison of safety and efficacy of Papaya dressing with hydrogen peroxide solution on wound bed preparation in patients with wound gape.Indian J Pharmacol.2012;44(6):784–787.
- Sadek KM.Antioxidant and immunostimulant effect of carica Papaya linn. aqueous extract in acrylamide intoxicated rats.Acta Inform Med.2012;20(3):180–185.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.