Papaya, also known as pawpaw, is loaded in vitamins and minerals that are needed by the body to function properly. This superfood is significantly high in antioxidants like carotenes, flavonoids, and vitamin C, as well as B vitamins, fiber, and magnesium.
In traditional medicine, many parts of papaya including its fruit, leaves, and seeds are used against various health illnesses.
Most people love the delicious, orange flesh of papaya fruit which is known for its impressive nutritional profile. We always tend to set aside or even throw away its seeds that are not only edible but can also bring health benefits in the body when consumed in small portions.
Here are the reasons why we should not underestimate the health benefits we can obtain from papaya seeds.
Make Bones Stronger
A rich amount of protein and calcium are present in papaya seeds, thus consumption of these can provide the body with stronger bones and muscles.
Keeps The Bacteria Away
Papaya seeds were found to have potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect in the digestive system. With just a small portion of crushed papaya seed, we can prevent bacteria from multiplying and residing in our body, combat bacterial infection, and alleviate the effects of food poisoning in the digestive system. Consume papaya seeds three times a day to get rid of bacteria such as E.coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and other dangerous bacterial infections.
Possess Antioxidant Properties
Papaya seeds have powerful antioxidant properties that can fight free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and harms the tissues of our body and can even prevent certain types of cancer.
Treatment for Liver Cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is a condition where scar tissue gradually replaces healthy liver cells. It is usually caused by excessive drinking of alcohol. Due to this, the organ is unable to effectively remove toxins from the body thus causing serious health problems.
According to studies, consumption of powdered organic papaya seeds can help treat liver cirrhosis and improve overall detoxification function of the liver. Simply mix a ¼ teaspoon of powdered papaya seeds with a tablespoon of squeezed lemon or lime juice in a glass of water. Drink this twice a day for a month.
In the absence of powdered papaya seeds, 10 fresh papaya seeds crushed using a mortar and pestle can also be used.
Pepper Substitute
Papaya seeds can be a good substitute for pepper. The seeds have peppery flavor with a little bit of a bitterness flavor. They can be a healthier pepper substitute.
Support Healthy Kidneys
Due to its detoxifying properties, papaya seeds can help promote healthy functions of our kidneys and even guards it against oxidative stress.
Improve Digestion
One of the main causes of poor digestion is a high-protein diet. Once these excess proteins were not broken down properly, they can accumulate in the colon and create toxic compounds.
Papaya seeds contain papain and proteolytic enzymes that can aid the digestive system thus breaking down these undigested proteins. For this benefit, the consumption of small amounts of papa seeds is recommended every time a large amount of meat is consumed.
Minimize Menstrual Pain for Women
To ease menstrual pain in women, papaya seeds should be mixed with papaya leaves and a little honey. Let the mixture chill for a while before drinking as cold beverages, especially the healthy ones, are the best.
