Did you know that consuming papaya seeds is good for you? Several studies have proven the positive action of this habit for health. Contrary to what is usually done, wasting these lumps is a big mistake.
It adds many benefits despite the bitter taste, acting as a powerful natural laxative. In addition, it is good for the intestine, improving its functioning, and can also fight worms.
And best of all, we have this fruit in abundance in the US. The place of origin of papaya is Central America, but Brazil holds the title of the world’s largest producer of this fruit.
Its pulp is widely consumed fresh, in the form of juices and sweets. However, its seeds, representing almost 15% of the fruit’s volume, are usually rejected for domestic consumption—something that shouldn’t happen, and we explain why.
Papaya is a delicious and nutritious fruit rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is known for its sweet and musky flavour, juicy texture, and numerous health benefits. Some of the benefits of papaya include improving digestion, boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy Skin.
One of the best ways to reap the benefits of papaya is to incorporate it into your daily diet. You can enjoy it in various forms, such as fresh slices, smoothies, salads, or as a topping on your morning oatmeal. You can also take advantage of papaya’s benefits through dietary supplements readily available.
Table of Contents
The main benefits of papaya seeds
1. Powerful Antioxidant:
Papaya seeds are considered a powerful antioxidant due to their high content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and unstable molecules that can harm cells and contribute to aging and diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
The phenolic and flavonoid compounds found in papaya seeds have been shown to have strong antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage. This, in turn, may help reduce the risk of various chronic diseases and promote overall health and longevity.
2. Healthy Gut:
Papaya seeds are a rich source of digestive enzymes, fibre, and phytochemicals that promote healthy digestion, regulate bowel movements, and improve gut health. The enzymes in papaya seeds aid in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, while the fibre acts as a prebiotic to feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Papaya seeds also have anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic properties that can help reduce inflammation and fight off harmful parasites in the digestive tract. However, excessive consumption of papaya seeds can adversely affect the digestive system, so they should be consumed in moderation.
3. Helps in Weight Loss:
Papaya seeds may aid in weight loss due to their high fibre content, which can help regulate appetite and promote feelings of fullness. Additionally, the enzymes in papaya seeds can aid food digestion, leading to better nutrient absorption and fewer calories being stored as fat.
Papaya seeds may also help reduce inflammation, which can contribute to weight gain. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand papaya seeds’ effects on weight loss. They should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption can have adverse effects.
4. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Papaya seeds contain polyphenols and flavonoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Additionally, papaya seeds contain an enzyme called papain that aids digestion and nutrient absorption, contributing to overall heart health. Some studies have suggested that consuming papaya seeds may help lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, often called “bad” cholesterol.
5. Anti-cancer Properties
Studies have found that papaya extracts and papaya leaf tea can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in several types of cancers, including breast, lung, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. Papaya extracts have also been shown to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells, which is a crucial mechanism for preventing the growth and spread of cancer.
6. Nephroprotective
Papaya seeds have nephroprotective properties due to bioactive compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, and alkaloids. These compounds help protect the kidneys from oxidative stress and inflammation, common causes of kidney damage. Papaya seeds also protect against toxins that can damage the kidneys, such as those found in pesticides and heavy metals.
7. Maintains Cardiovascular Health
Papaya seeds have been found to contain high levels of antioxidants and beneficial nutrients such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. This can positively impact cardiovascular health by lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, papaya seeds have been shown to possess antiplatelet activity, which can help prevent blood clots from forming and improve blood flow. Including papaya seeds in your diet may be a simple and natural way to support a healthy heart.
8. Reduces inflammation
Papaya seeds have been found to contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. These compounds may help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. Additionally, papaya seeds have been traditionally used in some cultures as a natural remedy for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
9. Good for our Skin
Papaya seeds are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and E, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. The seeds also contain papain, an enzyme that can exfoliate and brighten the Skin. The high omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in papaya seeds can help keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Additionally, papaya seeds have antibacterial properties, which may help prevent acne and other skin infections.
10. Antibacterial
Papaya seeds have been found to contain compounds such as benzyl isothiocyanate, which have antibacterial properties. These compounds have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus. Additionally, papaya seeds may help boost the immune system, which can also help fight off bacterial infections.
11. Relieves Menstrual Pain
Papaya seeds have been traditionally used in some cultures to relieve menstrual pain. They contain an enzyme called papain, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease cramps and discomfort during menstruation. Papaya seeds also have analgesic properties that can provide relief from pain. Consuming the seeds in moderation is suggested, as they may have a laxative effect. Consult with a healthcare provider before using papaya seeds for medicinal purposes.
12. Manage Liver Cirrhosis
Papaya seeds have been traditionally used as a natural remedy to support liver health, including managing liver cirrhosis. They are rich in antioxidants, phytochemicals, and flavonoids that help to detoxify the liver and protect it from damage caused by free radicals. The seeds contain enzymes that aid digestion and reduce inflammation, which can also benefit liver function.
13. Cures Food Poisoning
Papaya seeds contain an enzyme called papain which has antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties. This makes papaya seeds effective in treating food poisoning caused by bacterial or parasitic infections. Consuming a small number of papaya seeds, either raw or in capsule form, can help alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. However, it is essential to note that papaya seeds should not be consumed in large quantities as they can have toxic effects.
14. Supports Dengue Treatment
Some evidence suggests that papaya seeds may have properties that could help treat dengue fever. Dengue is a viral infection mosquitoes transmit and can cause severe flu-like symptoms. Papaya seeds contain compounds shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate dengue fever symptoms.
15. It May Help With Dandruff Control
Papaya seeds contain an enzyme called papain that may help exfoliate and cleanse the scalp, reducing the accumulation of dead skin cells that can contribute to dandruff. The sources also have antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help prevent the growth of microorganisms that can exacerbate dandruff. Some people may find that incorporating papaya seeds into their hair care routine can help improve the health and appearance of their scalp and hair.
How to consume
There is a whole range of options for making use of papaya seeds. In addition to fresh consumption, making flour from sources is possible, making combinations in the kitchen even more accessible.
In nature
Pure stones can be eaten with the fruit. They can also be added to salads, fruit, tropical salads, grilled vegetables, or soups and stews.
In this configuration, some people may find the bitterness of the seeds strange. So, when using the sources in recipes for shakes, juices, and vitamins, combine them with other ingredients with a solid flavour to soften the taste of papaya seeds. The tip is to bet on lemon, pineapple, ginger, mint, and orange.
Papaya Seed Flour
The seeds in the form of flour can be used in the recipes mentioned above to facilitate their ingestion. It can also replace black pepper in meat and fish seasoning. This use is possible thanks to its spicy flavour after being ground.
One tip is to make a seasoning mix. I am using the exact amounts of salt, garlic powder, ground papaya seeds, and herbs to taste. This ready-made seasoning can be used to season meat and chicken before roasting.
How to make flour
The first step is to remove the seeds and wash them under running water with the help of a sieve. Then place the bases on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 3 hours or until the lumps are wrinkled. Once cold, grind with a pestle. You can use a blender to blend it too.
Revenues
Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup of olive oil
- 1/3 cup of red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup papaya seeds
- ½ cup chopped white onion
- One tablespoon of honey
- Two teaspoons of mustard sauce
- Sea salt.
Preparation mode
Beat in a blender and store in a closed container in the refrigerator. Use in salads or to accompany the meat.
It was
Ingredients
- 1 cup of chopped papaya
- 1 cup of oil
- Three whole eggs
- 1 cup and ½ sugar
- One tablespoon of baking powder
- ½ cup papaya seed meal
- One cup and ½ of all-purpose flour.
for the syrup
- 2 cups of sugar
- One cup of orange juice.
Preparation mode
Beat the papaya, eggs, and oil in a blender until it becomes a paste. Once beaten, add the sugar, flour, and yeast in a bowl and mix well. Place in a pan greased with butter and flour and bake for 40 minutes. To make the syrup: bring the sugar and orange juice to the fire and simmer until it thickens.
Jam
Ingredients
- 3 cups of papaya seeds
- 2 cups and ½ of sugar
- 1 cup of water.
Preparation mode
Put the seeds in a pan, cover with water, and cook for 15 minutes. Drain the water, place the seeds in a blender, and add a cup. Beat, then sift. Place the strained liquid in a pan, add the sugar, and heat, stirring until it thickens. Store in covered glass.
Contraindications and precautions
Pregnant women should consume this ingredient without exaggeration and under medical guidance and supervision. Because they are spicy, these seeds change the PH of the stomach, which can lead to heartburn and reflux.
Some compounds in papaya seeds can reduce fertility, so if you intend to get pregnant, it is worth avoiding this food. Allergic people should stop drinking if it triggers reactions.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.