Papaya is a melon like fruit with yellow- orange flesh with dozens of small black seeds enclosed in skin that ranges in color from green to orange. Papaya has high nutritional benefits. It is rich in Anti-oxidants, the B vitamins, folate and pantothenic acid; and the minerals, potassium and magnesium; and fiber. Together, “these nutrients promote the health of the cardiovascular system and also provide protection against colon cancer.” In addition, papaya contains the digestive enzyme, papain, which is used like bromelain, a similar enzyme found in pineapple, to treat sports injuries, other causes of trauma, and allergies. Vitamin C and vitamin A, which is made in the body from the beta-carotene in papaya, are both needed for the proper function of a healthy immune system. Papaya may therefore be a healthy fruit choice for preventing such illnesses as recurrent ear infections, colds and flu.
The pectin in papayas is used to make jellies. The black seeds are sometimes used to substitute black pepper when ground. In fact, many times, adulteration of black pepper is done with papaya seeds. Papaya seeds also help relieve itching due to mosquito bites, when rubbed on the bites.
In parts of Asia, the young leaves are eaten as a food after they are steamed, while in some other areas, a tea is prepared from the leaves especially as a remedy for malaria.
Papaya extracts are used in soaps and other skin care products. Papain is used as one of the ingredients in some chewing gums.
The fruit is good for hair growth and is known to check the growth of dandruff.
Because of the high content of papain in the raw papaya it is used to make meat tender.
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