7 Benefits Of Consuming Papaya Seeds

Although its flavor is not to everyone’s liking, papaya seeds have interesting health benefits that are worth taking advantage of. Do you know the most important ones? Find out what they are!

Papaya is a fruit native to Mexico that is very popular in many countries. However, many people are not aware of the interesting benefits of consuming papaya seeds. Why did they become popular? What nutrients do they provide?

These small seeds, like many others, concentrate bioactive compounds that contribute to well-being. In fact, in recent years they have been the object of scientific research, as it is believed that they serve as a supporting role in health care. Discover its main uses.

Nutritional properties of papaya seed

Although for many years they were considered garbage, papaya seeds have nutritional properties that are worth taking advantage of. According to information published in the journal Molecules , they are particularly rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, two antioxidant substances that promote health.

They are also a source of monounsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, as detailed in a study published in the Journal of Food Lipids . To a lesser extent, they are a source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, nutrients that help to improve the quality of the diet.

Benefits of consuming papaya seeds

A 2014 survey published in the International Journal of Herbal Medicine highlights that papaya seeds have a spicy taste that, when ground, can be used as a substitute for black pepper.

This same research reminds them that they are a very nutritious ingredient, rich in fatty acids, proteins, fibers, oils and other substances that promote well-being. Do you know its benefits?

1. Helps to fight fungi

Thanks to its antifungal properties, papaya seed can be used as an ally to fight some fungal infections. In a study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences , papaya seed extract was effective against three different strains of fungi.

Although evidence is still insufficient, studies have found antifungal activity in papaya seeds.

2. Help against food poisoning

Although food poisoning should be treated by a doctor, papaya seeds can serve as an aid in treatment.

According to a review in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry , the extract produced from papaya seeds can be effective against microorganisms such as E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus , among others.

3. Papaya seed for digestion

This ingredient makes a small contribution of dietary fiber and, because of that, it helps to improve digestion. Fiber is a nutrient that moves through the gastrointestinal tract undigested, adding bulk to the stool to facilitate its expulsion.

A review published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology medical journal highlights that fiber intake was effective in increasing stool frequency in people with constipation.

4. Natural antiparasitic

Papaya seeds are not a first-line treatment against parasitic infections. Despite this, there are studies that suggest that they can be useful to deal with some types of parasites.

In a survey published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine , children fed porridge fortified with papaya seeds had a reduced amount of the so-called “large round worm” or Ascaris lumbricoides.

5. Aids renal protection

Although evidence is still limited, there are studies to suggest that papaya consumption may help protect kidney health. In an animal study, published in the African Journal of Health Sciences , a papaya seed extract helped prevent kidney damage in rats given a drug to induce toxicity.

Animal research has found a positive relationship between papaya seeds and kidney health. However, more studies are needed.

6. It has anti-inflammatory activity

Due to their significant contribution of flavonoid substances, papaya seeds have a mild anti-inflammatory action that could contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases. However, more studies are needed to assess how this effect occurs.

7. Helps fight acne

There is no evidence for the use of papaya seeds as a treatment for acne. However, in popular culture, they are considered a complementary remedy for this problem.

In this case, in addition to consuming papaya seeds, it is recommended to apply a type of natural plaster. To do this, we must follow these steps:

First, mix some papaya leaves with the seeds and macerate with a little water in a pestle.
The paste obtained should be placed on the affected area for about ten minutes.
Then wash the area with plenty of fresh water to remove the plaster.

Eat papaya seed moderately

Papaya seeds and their extracts are rich in nutrients that help promote health. In general, they can be consumed in their natural form, but without excess, as it can be counterproductive. Consume between 7-10 seeds and you won’t have any problems.