Enthusiasts appreciate the luscious taste of ripe papaya, while its raw, green form is commonly used in diverse recipes. However, what about the seeds? Often discarded without a second thought, these seemingly inedible seeds provide numerous health benefits when included in small quantities in our daily diet. This article explores the untapped potential of papaya seeds and their positive impact on our well-being. (1) (2)
Health Benefits of Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds offer health benefits such as improved digestive health, liver detoxification, cancer prevention, and antibacterial properties. However, their robust flavor and potential impact on fertility necessitate caution and consultation before regular consumption.
Packed with Nutrition
Fresh papaya seeds are highly nutritious. Several research studies have revealed that they contain nutrients like proteins and fats. While a cup of (1 ounce) papaya seeds acts as a good protein serving, it should also be taken in moderation simultaneously due to its high-fat content. They are also rich in micronutrients like magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.
Improves Digestive Health
Like the flesh of papaya, the fruit seeds also contain vast amounts of digestive enzymes, especially papain. Being extremely potent, they can facilitate the activities of ‘good bacteria’ and enhance the functionalities of our gastrointestinal organs. Consequently, we get rid of various digestive issues.
Detoxifies and Heals Liver
Regular consumption of a small amount of papaya seeds can make our liver toxin-free, thereby perking up our overall health to a great extent. Apart from liver detoxification, they can also heal severely damaged liver efficiently. Studies have proved that drinking crushed papaya seeds with one tablespoon of lemon juice twice daily can cure liver cirrhosis (shrinkage and hardening of liver due to excessive alcohol consumption) successfully within just a month.
Averts Renal Diseases
Fresh papaya seeds have immense positive effects on our kidneys. It has been found that these seeds are highly beneficial for kidney diseases that are associated with body poisoning. They help treat fatal kidney diseases efficiently and play a crucial role in preventing kidney failure.
Keeps Cancer at Bay
Intake of papaya seeds can even help our body fight against the rapid growth of cancerous tumors. Researchers have found the presence of certain immunomodulatory compounds in them, which are known to slow down the formation and development of cancerous cells and tumors. The isothiocyanate components of papaya seeds can help us stay away from breast cancer, blood cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer.
High in Antioxidants
According to a report published in the famous synthetic organic and natural product chemistry journal called ‘Molecules,’ fresh seeds of raw papaya fruits work as a great source of antioxidants. They are loaded with flavonoid and phenolic acid compounds, which protect our body from free radical damage with their strong antioxidative properties.
Good Antibacterial Agent
The antibacterial qualities of papaya seeds are impressive and can be used to treat food poisoning. The extract from only a tiny amount of these seeds can work directly on harmful bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, etc., in our digestive system. As a result, we can stay away from acute bacterial infections.
Reduces Inflammation
Papaya seeds also possess excellent anti-inflammatory properties. These are particularly advantageous for treating conditions that cause inflammation, like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc. Regularly eating these seeds can eliminate joint pain, redness, swelling, etc.
Cures Viral Infections
Aside from bacteria, papaya seeds can also protect us from the harmful effects of viruses. Several research studies have shown that these seeds hold anti-viral solid properties, which can successfully combat severe viral infections. Papaya seeds are considered the most effective natural remedy for dengue fever in Costa Rica and Central America.
Kills Intestinal Parasitic Worms
According to the ‘Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine,’ papaya seeds contain a campaign, an exclusive anthelmintic alkaloid compound that actively destroys intestinal parasitic worms, including amoeba. They also have high levels of proteolytic digestive enzymes, specifically papain (as said before), which can break down all those undigested protein molecules inside the gastrointestinal tract and turn it into an unfavorable place for parasites and worms to live.
However, papaya seeds have a robust, peppery flavor. They also taste a bit bitter. So, you may not find it easy to consume from the very first moment. Moreover, one must consult an expert before starting the daily intake of papaya seeds as a natural remedy. They are also known to hurt fertility. So, avoiding papaya seeds if you plan to conceive is also advised.
Also Read – Papaya Enzymes for Weight Loss: Benefits, Intake, and Potential Risks
Side Effects of Papaya Seeds
While papaya seeds offer various health benefits, being aware of potential side effects is essential. The seeds have a robust, peppery flavor that might be challenging for some to consume. Additionally, they taste bitter. Individuals with specific allergies may experience adverse reactions. Papaya seeds are known to hurt fertility, so those planning to conceive should avoid them. Consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating papaya seeds into the daily diet is advisable to ensure compatibility and mitigate potential risks.
Summary
Papaya seeds, often discarded, offer numerous health benefits when incorporated into diets. Rich in nutrients, including proteins and fats, they support digestive health with potent enzymes, detoxify and heal the liver, avert renal diseases, and combat cancer growth. High in antioxidants, they act as antibacterial agents, reduce inflammation, and cure viral infections. Additionally, papaya seeds eliminate intestinal parasitic worms. However, their robust flavor and potential impact on fertility warrant caution and consultation before regular consumption.