The papaya, papaw, or pawpaw is the plant species Carica papaya, one of the 21 accepted species in the genus Carica of the family Caricaceae. It was first domesticated in Mesoamerica, within modern-day southern Mexico and Central America. It is grown in several countries in regions with a tropical climate.
Papayas are tropical fruit high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Certain compounds in papayas may have anticancer properties and improve heart health, among other health benefits. Below are the health benefits of pawpaw;
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which can break down the tough protein chains found in muscle meat. Because of this, people have used papaya to tenderize meat for thousands of years.If the papaya is ripe, it can be eaten raw. However, unripe papaya should always be cooked before eating — especially during pregnancy, as the unripe fruit is high in latex, which can stimulate contractions .
Papaya may work by reducing free radicals that contribute to cancer.Additionally, papaya may have some unique effects not shared by other fruits.Among 14 fruits and vegetables with known antioxidant properties, only papaya demonstrated anticancer activity in breast cancer cells.In a small study in older adults with inflammation and precancerous stomach conditions, a fermented papaya preparation reduced oxidative damage.
Along with vitamin C, papaya is high in beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that keeps your skin and eyes healthy. While carrots and tomatoes are popular produce selections when it comes to beta-carotene, papayas are also an excellent source.
Papaya also has benefits for the skin when applied topically. Research has found that papaya has often been used to treat skin ailments because it produces phytochemicals (AKA highly effective and efficient antioxidants), which help to neutralize skin-damaging free radicals.