Papaya is rich in a digestive action enzymepapain, very similar to pancreatinsecreted by the pancreas as a digestive enzyme.

Both the pulp (preferably green) and the leaves of papaya are used. The leaf contains up to 2% papain and carpain.

These enzymes act as proteasesI mean, help break down proteinsas well as the degradation of carbohydrates and fats.

Of the complex mixture of papaya proteases It mainly highlights papain, although it also includes carpapain, chimopapain A and B, and papaya peptidase A.

This type of protease is also present in tropical pineapple, which contains bromelain, and therefore Both papaya and pineapple are excellent desserts in meals in which protein has been abused.

These proteases can exert a notably antioxidant action and possibly reduce the risk of tumors.

Papaya properties

Besides, Papaya improves the digestibility of foods rich in fats, carbohydrates and especially proteins.

It is recommended for people who get stuffy easily or suffer from gas or heavy digestion. after eating a protein-rich meal.

Orally, papain and papaya extracts have been used to treat edema and inflammation consecutive to a surgical intervention, and also pharyngitis.

Carpainewith amoebicidal action, has been indicated against intestinal parasites.

Applied directly to the skinpapaya has proteolytic effects and is an excellent treatment for jellyfish stings, allergic dermatitis, shingles and psoriasis. Secondarily, it has been used in the treatment of. infected wounds, ulcers and sores.

Papain is also used with multiple purposes in the cosmetic and food industry. It is part of cosmetics, toothpastes and compounds of the contact lenses soft, and added to the meat as softener now the beer to control foam.

Precautions when taking papain

He abusive use of papain has ever been produced perforations of the esophagus.

When it is green, its latex is irritating and notably vesicant (can cause blisters on the skin).

Besides, papaya extracts can modify blood clotting, Therefore, they should be used with caution and notifying the doctor when taking anticoagulants such as warfarin or sintrom, since increase the risk of bleeding.

He Concomitant consumption of potatoes, figs or kiwis can also modify proteolytic activity of the papaya.

Maximum Recommended Papain Dose

The papaya can be consumed in tablet formwhich normally contain some 250 mg extract powdered; can be taken up to three or four a day.