Many of us love the sweet and succulent flesh of ripe papaya. The raw green version of it is usually cooked to prepare a variety of dishes. But what do you people do with the seeds of the fruit? If you are already wondering to see the title of this article (this is true for most of us, of course), you definitely throw them away. Well, do you know that these so-called non-edible seeds can offer multiple health benefits to us, if incorporated in daily diet in small amount? Let us take a look at them through this article. Here we go:
- Packed with Nutrition
Fresh papaya seeds are highly nutritious. Several researches have revealed that they are loaded with 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 at the same time due to its high level of fat content. They are also rich in micronutrients like magnesium, calcium and phosphorus.
- Improves Digestive Health
Like the flesh of papaya, the seeds of the fruit also contain huge amount 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 in an efficient manner. 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 not only help in treating various fatal kidney diseases efficiently, but also play a key role in preventing kidney failure.
Also Read – 30 Benefits of Papaya For Skin & Health Here
- 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 as well as development of cancerous cells and tumors. In fact, 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 on 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 basically loaded with flavonoid compounds and phenolic acid compounds, which protect our body from free radical damages with their strong antioxidative properties.
- Good Antibacterial Agent
The antibacterial qualities of papaya seeds are quite impressive and they can be used for treating food poisoning. The extract prepared from only a little amount of these seeds can work directly on bad bacteria, such as Escherichia Coli, Staphylococcus, and Salmonella, etc. present 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 several medical conditions that cause inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc. By eating these seeds regularly, we can easily get rid of joint pain, redness, swelling, and so on.
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- Cures Viral Infections
Not only from bacteria, but papaya seeds can also provide protection to us from the harmful effects of viruses. A number of researches have clearly shown that these seeds hold strong anti-viral properties, which can combat severe viral infections successfully. Papaya seeds are even considered as the most effective natural remedy for Dengue fever in Costa Rica of Central America.
- Kills Intestinal Parasitic Worms
According to the ‘Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine’, the seeds of papaya contain carpaine, an exclusive anthelmintic alkaloid compound that actively takes part in the destruction of 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 strong 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 with an expert before starting the daily intake of papaya seeds as a natural remedy. They are also known to have a negative effect on fertility. So, it is also advised that you stay away from papaya seeds if you are planning to conceive.
Also Read – Papaya Enzymes for Weight Loss: Benefits, Intake, and Potential Risks
