Papain is a highly potent plant enzyme extracted from papaya, the fruit of the Carica papaya plant. Benefits of papaya include a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and cancer, as well as lowered blood pressure and improved control of blood sugar levels.
This enzyme is particularly concentrated in the papaya when it’s unripe. A 2nd enzyme, called – chymopapain, is also present in this fruit. It is relatively resistant to heat, with an optimum operating temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Celsius.
Health Benefits of Papain
Antioxidant Properties
Due to its strong antioxidant properties, it fights free radical damage. Free radicals are reactive molecules produced within the energy-producing power plants of the cell – the mitochondria.
Free radical damage is strongly associated with the formation of numerous diseases, such as – cardiovascular disease, degenerative diseases, cataracts, cancer, and aging.
Treats Digestive Problems
Digestive problems are especially common in western society and have become part of the daily routine of many of us, however, in normal conditions, digestive problems are not supposed to appear at all.
Approximately 60 to 70 million people in the United States suffer from some type of digestive problem, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
The main benefit of this enzyme is acting as a natural digestive enzyme and breaking down food, especially protein. It is usually ingested in chewable tablet form and a common dose for this enzyme is 1 to 3 tablets right after a meal. It reduces bloating and helps digestion, according to Ayurvedic medicine.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease, usually triggered by an allergy to gluten (a protein found in barley, wheat, or rye grains), is acknowledged to affect around one percent of all adults. They can use this enzyme to break down gluten into its non-allergenic amino acid components that their stomachs can tolerate much easier.
Benefits For Skin
Due to its beneficial capacities and characteristics, it is presently being studied for topical applications on irritations, burns, and wounds.
This enzyme not only helps in healing of the wound but also prevents the scar from getting bigger and keeps the harmful bacteria away. To do this, you can simply put the flesh of papaya fruit on fresh wounds, cuts, and even burns for faster healing.
Acne
About 70–90% of young adults, of both genders, suffer from acne. Changing hormone levels, genetics, and stress are all contributing factors.
This enzyme is remarkable for exfoliation, leaving the skin rejuvenated and youthful-looking, and is also a good natural remedy for skin conditions, like – acne.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition which most usually appears as “plaque psoriasis,” that is raised, inflamed red patches covered by a silvery-white scale. Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body. This enzyme is used in traditional medicine as a remedy for psoriasis.
Reduces Fluid Retention
If you ever notice swelling in your feet, hands, or ankles, or maybe even bloating (it is usually overlooked the source of the abdominal discomfort) in other areas, it’s commonly due to the fact that you’re retaining water or other fluids. This supplement is occasionally used to combat fluid retention.
Prostate
An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects 1 in 5 men between the ages of 50 and 60 in the US, and it’s even more common in older men. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this supplement extracted from the papaya fruit may help with the reduction of inflammation or swelling in the prostate gland.
Natural Joint Pain Remedy
Arthritis is a group of degenerative and painful conditions characterized by inflammation in the joints which leads to pain and stiffness. According to studies, more than thirty percent of all adults experience some type of joint pain every four weeks. The anti-inflammatory properties of this enzyme have been shown to be quite beneficial in reducing joint pain.
Natural Meat Tenderizer
Natural meat tenderizers can transform an economical cut of beef into a delectable dinner. For example, people in South America have used this supplement for centuries as a natural meat tenderizer.
Intestinal Worm Treatment
Intestinal worms are parasites that can affect both children and adults, nevertheless, they are more prevalent in children.
Parasites enter the human body through transmitting agents such as mosquitoes, poor hygiene, contaminated water or food (especially because of eating undercooked and raw meat), exposure to areas known to have parasites, via skin and nose, weak immune system, and sexual contact.
Uses
This enzyme is found in some drug detox products.
It is also added to some mint sweets and toothpaste as a tooth whitener. However, this property is low, due to the fact that this enzyme is quickly diluted by saliva and is present in low concentrations in these products.
Side Effects Of Papain Enzyme Powder
It is recommended to use this enzyme for a maximum of two weeks consecutively because in high doses it may irritate the digestive tract, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
In addition, this enzyme may increase the blood-thinning effects of prescription medicines, like – aspirin and warfarin.
In some cases, applying this potent supplement directly on the irritated skin may lead to blisters and further irritation. Presently, there are no studies regarding its safe use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Moreover, some people may have allergic reactions when consuming it, especially if they are allergic to kiwi and fig fruits.
References https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/papaya http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fruits-and-fruit-juices/1985/2