Top 10 health benefits of papaya 

Papaya is scientifically known as Carica papaya. It is a delicious tropical fruit cherished for its sweet taste, mouthwatering flavor, and numerous health benefits. Papaya was originally found in the tropics of America and southern Mexico. It became popular on all continents because of its unique flavor, versatility, and health benefits. It has medicinal properties like its seeds, leaves, and the milk of the papaya tree are used to kill intestinal worms and parasites and cure intestinal problems. 

This fruit has high nutritional value, fiber, and natural enzymes that help in weight loss and holds a prominent place in our diet. There are countless ways to incorporate this superfruit into your regular diet. It has a low-calorie count, making it an ideal snack. Its high fiber content gives a feeling of fullness, preventing from consuming too much. Its natural enzyme papain, aids in digestion, increases metabolic rates, and prevents constipation. It also includes various vitamins like vitamin A, C, and E, folate, and potassium, which provides energy and helps shed extra pounds.

From breakfast bowls to refreshing smoothies, there are many ways they can be included in our diets. Here is a brief representation of nutrition found in papaya.

The nutritional values of “Papayas, raw” per 100 grams are:

Following are the benefits of papaya-

Papaya for skin –

mostly used as a face pack, it helps to get rid of acne and skin infections by opening the clogged pores. Papain in papaya helps to dissolve the dead cells, resulting in a fresh and glowing skin. Its medicinal properties help cure skin infections and wounds which otherwise take long to heal.

Papaya as a Cholesterol controlling agent –

it contains antioxidants that protects our LDL(low density lipoprotein) cholesterol from oxidation, a major risk factor that causes heart diseases. It is rich in fiber that lowers the blood cholesterol levels. 

Papaya and anti-aging properties –

Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene that prevents free radical damage and delays the aging process. Consuming it on a daily basis prevents wrinkles, pimples, scars, acne and other skin infections. Papaya is rich in vitamin C and minerals which strengthens the immunity and prolongs the aging process.

Digestion and papaya –

Papaya seeds contain an enzyme called papain which possess medicinal properties. They are good at curing the intestinal worms. A teaspoon of papaya seeds prevents digestive issues like bloating, constipation and indigestion. This enzyme also cures constipation.

Anti-cancer potential–

Papaya seeds possess anti-cancer properties due to their ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells. They Improve heart health  as they contain monounsaturated fats and antioxidants which reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases and prevents the growth of tumor cells. It has an anti-proliferative effect on liver cancer cells. It stops or slows down the growth of the cancer cells of the liver and helps in its cure.

Immune booster papaya –

Papaya seeds are loaded with Vitamin C and Vitamin A , which boosts the immune system and helps in the production of collagen, promoting healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Better liver health –

Rich in antioxidants, its seeds eliminate toxins from the body and support liver functions. The compounds present in their seeds help in detoxifying the liver. 

Anti-inflammatory properties –

The presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds in papaya seeds helps to reduce inflammation and provide relief from inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Crushed papaya seeds can be sprinkled over the salads, smoothies or yogurt to avail the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also lowers the risk of asthma and improves lung functions.

Female health and papaya –

It controls the menstrual irregularities and eases the menstrual cramps. It also promotes the regular flow of menstruation. The iron content in papaya addresses the iron-deficiency anemia, which is common in menstruating women. Vitamin K in papaya boosts bone health and it helps in calcium absorption and bone mineralization. 

Contraception and papaya –

Papaya is considered as an effective birth control remedy. It is believed that consuming papaya twice a day for 3-4 days after having unprotected intercourse can prevent pregnancy. Papaya’ s enzyme papain suppresses the progesterone which prepares the uterus for pregnancy. In males it can reduce the sperm count, motility and viability.

Kidney disorder & Papaya –

In poison-related kidney disorder it was found that the aqueous seed extract of the unripe mature fruits of papaya induces antioxidant and oxidative free radical scavenging and help the kidney to recover.

Conclusion 

Papaya is more than just a tropical fruit. It not only benefits superficially but also impacts the body from within. It can be consumed in many forms, like breakfast bowls and smoothies. It is a nutritional powerhouse that can be enjoyed smooth or incorporated into savory dishes. 

FAQ’S about Top 10 health benefits of papaya 

Ques. What are the benefits of papaya in osteoporosis?

Its anti-inflammatory enzymes help in relieving the pain. People suffering from arthritis, edema and osteoporosis should consume papaya. 

Ques. Does papaya contain anti-cancerous properties?

Yes, papaya contains anti-cancerous properties that help prevent cancer.

Ques. Which part of the papaya contains medicinal properties?

Seeds, leaves, and milk of papaya trees are rich in medicinal properties.

Ques. How is papaya useful in dengue?

A person suffering from dengue should consume juice obtained from papaya leaves. It shall increase the platelet count. 

Ques. How does papaya affect contraception in males?

Though research is still going on it is believed that papaya is an effective birth control remedy. In males it reduces the sperm count and viability.