Papaya Leaf Tea Science Summary:

1. Asian scientists have shown the anti-tumor effect of papaya leaf tea in the lab on cancer cell lines including pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, lymphoma, stomach cancer, neuroblastoma, uterine cancer, leukemia, breast cancer, colon cancer, blood cancer, etc.  

2. Three centuries ago and forward scientists have proven the effect of proteases (the active enzyme in papaya leaf tea) on tumors. The most famous of these in history include Beard, Howell, Burk, and the great German Scientist, Warburg, and many others. This is important because the protease papain in the papaya leaf has proven to be more powerful at dissolving fibrin proteins than animal proteases or even our own pancreatic enzymes.

3. Scientists that study systemic enzyme therapy (enzymes taken orally as an effect on the entire body) have proven since the 70’s that enzyme molecules can make it past your small intestine to the rest of your body. This leaves behind the conventional wisdom that enzyme molecules were too big to pass into your body for effectiveness.  

4. Two large clinical studies are listed in the ebook show positive clinical results using protease-based enzyme therapy for patients with breast cancer, and multiple myeloma. Many famous cancer clinics including the famous Hope Clinic recommend enzyme therapy, of which papaya leaf tea is one form/substitute for pills. Papaya Leaf Tea is listed as recommended for alternative cancer therapy in fourteen countries.

5. The FDA considers enzyme therapy as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). Unlike many drugs or even some natural therapies, papaya leaf tea does not seem to show side effects and carries only two warnings; allergy to latex or used in combination with other blood thinners.

6. Some scientists hypothesize that Papaya leaf tea has an advantage to the pure papain enzyme (used commercially and sold in pill form at most drug stores) in that the nutrients in the leaf provide the necessary co-enzymes to “unlock” the action. Other scientists believe the element carpaine in the leaf is the active tumor-fighting agent. Another reason for the ethnomedicine using the tea to fight cancer may be that science

shows the enzyme is most active at the higher “tea” temperatures.

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Papaya Leaf Cancer Cure

Papaya Leaf                          Papaya Tree

Papaya/Pawpaw apaya (Carica papaya) originates from tropical American countries. Today Papaya is cultivated in most tropical countries around the world.

The Papaya with the Latin name carica papaya is called Paw Paw in Australia and New Zealand. This is in no way related to the Paw Paw in North America that has the Latin name asimina tribola, though both are medicinal plants.

Papaya leaf juice is claimed to have reversed cancer in many people living on the Gold Coast in Australia. Harold W. Tietze in his book Papaya The Medicine Tree, describes how to make

 

the juice and tells the stories of many cancer survivors who reportedly used the juice to get rid of their cancer.

The book contains the the following report that was published in the Gold Coast Bulletin. “PawPaw Cancer Plea Bears Fruit". Gold coast gardeners have responded to an appeal by cancer victims desperate to find supplies of pawpaw leaves. And the Gold Coast man who, 14 years ago, first exposed the leaves as a possible cure for cancer has been tracked down to a Labrador (Gold Coast) nursing home. The story of how Stan Sheldon cured himself of cancer by drinking the boiled extract of pawpaw leaves was first told in the Gold Coast Bulletin in 1978.

Now research in the United States has given scientific support to his claim, isolating a chemical compound in the pawpaw tree which is reported to be a million times stronger than the strongest anti-cancer drug. Mr Sheldon, says the discovery does not surprise him. “I was dying from cancer in both lungs when it was suggested to me as an old Aboriginal remedy” he said. “I tried it for two months and then I was required to have a chest x-ray during those compulsory TB checks they used to have. They told me both lungs were clear.” “I told my specialists and they didn’t believe me until they had carried out their own tests.” “Then they scratched their heads and recommended I carry on drinking the extract I boiled out ofthe papaw leaves.”

That was in 1962. The cancer never recurred. Since then Mrs Sheldon has passed the recipe onto other cancer victims. “Sixteen of them were cured,” he said. Mr Sheldon’s involves boiling and simmering fresh pawpaw leaves and stems in a pan for two hours before draining and bottling the extract. He said the mixture could be kept in a refrigerator though it may ferment after three or four days.“

“One man has been growing papaws and giving away the leaves to cancer victims ever since he read the Bulletin’s original 1978 story about Mr Sheldon. “I have no doubt that it works,” he said. “I know people walking around now who should have been dead according to their original cancer diagnosis. But the pawpaw treatment helped them to beat the cancer.”

The recipe is as follows:Wash and partly dry several medium-size papaya leaves. Cut them up like cabbage and place them in a saucepan with 2 quarts/ litres of water. Bring the water and leaves to the boil and simmer without a lid until the water is reduced by half.Strain the liquid and bottle in glass containers.The concentrate will keep in the refrigerator for three to four days. If it becomes cloudy, it should be discarded.

The recommended dosage in the original recipe is 3 Tablespoons/ 50ml three times a day. It is recommended to read Papaya The Medicine Tree for the interesting stories of "incurable” people who have used this extract to beat their cancer, and for other medicinal uses of papaya.

A letter from R.J.W.:

“… I was inspired to send some leaves to a few people dying from cancer. The first, a banana grower aged 40, had two operations on his bladder for cancer which did not prevent metastasis. I placed him on a very simple diet consisting of zero junk food, fresh living food with no preservatives, white flour, sugar, colourings or additives and told him to “stuff a handful of pawpaw leaves into a saucepan and fill with water. Boil, simmer for one hour and drink it till it comes out of your ears.” He did so and five weeks had no trace of cancer whatsoever.”

The leaves have also been reported successful used when dried and ground. The astonishing effects of the pawpaw have also been proved in tests on mice. The results were very impressive; tumors found in humans were being injected in mice and during treatment with papaw were disappearing.

Pawpaw twigs contain acetogenins - active compounds that modulate the production of ATP in mitochondria of specific cells - which affects the viability of specific cells and the growth of blood vessels that nourish them. A recent clinical study with over 100 participants showed that the pawpaw extract, containing a mixture of acetogenins, supports the body's normal cells during times of cellular stress.

Since 1976 Dr. McLaughlin, professor at Purdue University, at the request of National Cancer Institute, lead a team of two other professors in studying the effectiveness of herbs on tumors. Pawpaw proved to be the most effective out of about 3,500 plants. Dr. McLaughlin found around 50 biologically active ingredients in this plant. Acetogenins are the medically effective ingredients of this herb.

Acetogenins found in pawpaw have been shown to have dramatic biological activity, being active against worms, some viruses, fungi, and many cancer cell lines. When compared with conventional chemotherapy agents, they have worked comparably in cell culture and animal studies, but at far lower concentrations and with almost no toxicity to host animals.

Dr. McLaughlin says that pawpaw is also effective in the fight against tumors, actually against any type of abnormalities which involve faster than normal cell growth. Pawpaw can be used as a support during Chemotherapy and radiation. Tests revealed that pawpaw makes these therapies more effective, and reduces their side effects.

“Pawpaw is very effective on its own. It typically doesn't need any supporting supplements. There are however, products that may be used in increasing the pawpaw's effectiveness. The products are Noni, Immune Stimulator, Colostrums, and Protease Plus (especially when fighting a digestive tract or intestinal tumor).

However, pawpaw should not be used with any kind of thyroid stimulators (e.g.: KC-X) or with CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10). For cancer patients taking Laetrile, it is important to consume paw paw and pineapple each day, as the natural enzyme strips the coating on the cancer cells, so that the B17 in the kernels can work.”

Use a Zapper Digital with the papaya leaf treatment to enhance the cancer fighting benefits.

Papaya is reddish yellow fruit, grown all over the world, mostly in the regions of hot climate and lots of rain. The tree is of medium height. Its trunk is straight without any branches and it has an umbrella type of growth at the top. According to Hakeem Hashmi, papaya is an every part has medicinal value. Papaya is an appetizer, anti phlegmatic, digestive, carminative, diuretic, anti flatulent, vermifuge, pyreutic and a general tonic. Papita is a rich source of vitamin A & C. its pulp also has tartaric & citric acid, mineral salts, calcium & phosphorus. The milk of papita tree is a very rich in 'Papain"- a digestive enzyme which is very useful as medicine. All other parts of papaya tree & fruit also have "papain".

Hakeem Hashmi well respected unani physician has given very useful medicinal uses of papaya in home remedies.

Indigestion & stomach problems: -

1. 1. Taking fresh ripe papaya in breakfast cures indigestion, flatulence, acidity and increase appetite.

2. 2. Powdered dry leaves of papaya soaked in water overnight and taken in the morning is also useful in curing all types of stomach ailments

Diarrhoea: - consuming boiled raw papaya, cures chronic diarrhoea.

Freckles and other blemishes of skin: -

1. Applying mashed ripe papaya pulp on the affected parts half an hour before bath eliminates freckles and other blemishes of skin and imparts natural glow and luster.

2. Applying fresh juice of raw papaya is also useful in pimples.

Menstrual p roblems: -

1. Eating ripe papaya everyday regulates menses.

2. Taking powdered seeds of papaya with water is also useful.

Liver & spleen: -

1. Eating raw papaya as a vegetable with meal controls enlargement of liver and spleen of children.

2. Pickle of raw papaya is also helpful in curing the ailments of liver.

3. Taking half teaspoon of dried & powdered seeds of papaya with water & little salt twice a day is also useful in curing liver ailments.

Jaundice: -

1. Taking 10 to 12 drops of raw papaya juice with a spongy sugar candy (Batasha)or 10 to 15 days help in curing jaundice.

2. Eating ripe papaya daily is also helps in curing jaundice.

Fever: - Drinking boiled water of papaya leaves, cures fever.

Worms: - Taking half-teaspoon ground seeds of papaya with water for 3 to 4 days help eliminates stomach worms.

Urinary problems: - Taking ripe papaya regularly cures urinary problems.

High blood pressure: - eating ripe papaya half an hour before breakfast checks high blood pressure.

Piles: -

taking ripe papita in the afternoon helps in curing piles. Eczema, ringworm itching:-applying fresh juice of raw papita on the affected parts cures skin ailments like eczema, itching & ringworm.

Milk in breast: -

1. Eating ripe papita daily helps in improve lactation in breast feeding mother.

2. Eating raw papaya as a vegetable with meals helps to increase breast milk. And papita is available year round, so consuming it regularly helps to ahealthy life.

Papaya is reddish yellow fruit, grown all over the world, mostly in the regions of hot climate and lots of rain. The tree is of medium height. Its trunk is straight without any branches and it has an umbrella type of growth at the top.

According to Hakeem Hashmi, papaya is an every part has medicinal value. Papaya is an appetizer, anti phlegmatic, digestive, carminative, diuretic, anti flatulent, vermifuge, pyreutic and a general tonic. Papita is a rich source of vitamin A & C. its pulp also has tartaric & citric acid, mineral salts, calcium & phosphorus. The milk of papita tree is a very rich in 'Papain"- a digestive enzyme which is very useful as medicine. All other parts of papaya tree & fruit also have "papain".

Hakeem Hashmi well respected unani physician has given very useful medicinal uses of papaya in home remedies.

 

Indigestion & stomach problems: -

1. Taking fresh ripe papaya in breakfast cures indigestion, flatulence, acidity and increase appetite.

2. Powdered dry leaves of papaya soaked in water overnight and taken in the morning is also useful in curing all types of stomach ailments.

Diarrhoea: -

Consuming boiled raw papaya, cures chronic diarrhoea.

Freckles and other blemishes of skin: -

Applying mashed ripe papaya pulp on the affected parts half an hour before bath eliminates freckles and other blemishes of skin and imparts natural glow and luster.

Applying fresh juice of raw papaya is also useful in pimples.

Menstrual problems: -

Eating ripe papaya everyday regulates menses.

Taking powdered seeds of papaya with water is also useful.

Liver & spleen: -

Eating raw papaya as a salad with meal controls enlargement of liver and spleen of children.

Pickle of raw papaya is also helpful in curing the ailments of liver.

Taking half teaspoon of dried & powdered seeds of papaya with water & little salt twice a day is also useful in curing liver ailments.

Jaundice: -

Taking 10 to 12 drops of raw papaya juice with a spongy sugar candy (Batasha) For 10 to 15 days help in curing jaundice.

Eating ripe papaya daily is also helps in curing jaundice.

Fever: -

Drinking boiled water of papaya leaves, cures fever.

Worms: -

Taking half-teaspoon ground seeds of papaya with water for 3 to 4 days help

eliminates stomach worms.

Urinary problems: -

Taking ripe papaya regularly cures urinary problems.

High blood pressure: -

Eating ripe papaya half an hour before breakfast checks high blood pressure.

Piles: -

Taking ripe papita in the afternoon helps in curing piles. Eczema, ringworm itching: -applying fresh juice of raw papita on the affected parts cures skin ailments like eczema, itching & ringworm.

Breast Milk: -

Eating ripe papita daily helps in improve lactation in breast feeding mother.

Eating raw papaya as a salad with meals helps to increase breast milk. And papita is available year round, so consuming it regularly helps to a healthy life.

Papaya leaf tea can perform as an herbal enzyme therapy for cancer that may be more powerful than enzyme therapy pills

and may be more powerful than our own

pancreatic enzymes (see papaya leaf study

for details).

Enzyme therapy is excellent as a natural

defense against cancer, and can help

your body fight cancer if you can stick with a regular dosage plan.

Similar to enzyme therapy, the sooner

that you are diagnosed and start to drink

papaya leaf tea on a regular basis,the better

the recovery chance. Sustained use may

prevent re-occurrence.

Preventative and regular life use of

papaya leaf tea can show significant health

improvements. This from my own personal

experience and the personal testimonies of

many others.

As always, consult with your doctor.

Papaya leaf tea and enzyme therapy are considered GRAS

(generally recongnized as safe) by the FDA.

The papaya is an amazingly rich source of the proteolytic enzymes

The papaya is an amazingly rich source of the proteolytic enzymes. These are the chemicals that enable the digestion of protein. Papain, which is the most important of these enzymes in the papaya, is extracted and dried as a powder for use to aid the digestion, and it is often used as a meat tenderizer, the enzyme partially breaking down the meat fibers - digesting them in fact.

Many experts, such as Dr Lytton-Bernard, have claimed rejuvenating properties for papaya, especially for the control of premature ageing. It may be that it works simply because a poor digestion leaves the body without the correct nutrients. Those who find it almost impossible to digest anything frequently find that papaya used regularly, either in tablet or juice form, marks the turning point in the climb back to vitality and good health.

As a cleanser you can take a quarter pint (150ml) of papaya juice alternated each hour for twelve hours by the same amount of cucumber or green bean juice. Papaya loses some of the enzymes as it ripens, so if you have the choice select them green. They are easy to obtain in most parts of America but are not found in British greengrocers very often. Fortunately there has been a rapid expansion in the numbers of specialist shops providing for the needs of the Indian and West Indian communities where papayas can be bought.

Papaya contains arginine which is known to be essential for male fertility and also carpain, an enzyme thought to be good for the heart. Fibrin also occurs and this substance is not commonly found in the plant kingdom; in man it forms part of the blood clotting process. The papaya is an excellent source of vitamin C, with 82mg per 100g (4oz), and is rich in carotene.

After treatment with antibiotics the use of papaya juice will quickly assist the restoration of the normal bacteria in the gut which will have been destroyed by the treatment. Papaya is good for many digestive disorders and is excellent for improving poor digestion. It has also been recommended as part of the treatment for cancer. Therapeutically it can often be combined with pineapple juice in which there is another important enzyme bromelain.

The skin of the papaya is a first class external treatment for skin wounds and places that do not heal quickly. The pulp from the juicer can be used for this and as a poultice.

Family: Caricaceae Genus: Carica

Species: papaya Common Names: Papaya, chich put, fan kua, kavunagaci, lechoso, lohong si phle, mapaza, mu kua, papailler, papaw, papaye, papayer, pawpaw tree, pepol, tinti, wan shou kuo, betik petik, gandul, katela gantung, kates, kepaya, kuntaia

Part Used: Leaves, fruit, seed, latex

PLANT DESCRIPTION

Documented Properties& Actions:

Analgesic, amebicide, antibiotic, antibacterial, cardiotonic, cholagogue, digestive, emmenagogue, febrifuge, hypotensive, laxative, pectoral, stomachic, vermifuge

REFERENCED QUOTES ON PAPAYA

James A. Duke. 1983. Handbook of Energy Crops. unpublished: (From Purdue online)

"UsesPapaya is cultivated for its ripe fruits, favored by tropical people, as breakfast fruit, and as an ingredient in jellies, preserves, or cooked in various ways; juice makes a popular beverage; young leaves, shoots, and fruits cooked as a vegetable. Latex used to remove freckles. Bark used for making rope. Leaves used as a soap substitute, are supposed to remove stains. Flowers eaten in Java. Papain, the proteolytic enzyme, has a wealth of industrial uses. It has milk-clotting (rennet) and protein digesting properties. Active over a wide pH range, papain is useful in medicine, combatting dyspepsia and other digestive orders. In liquid preparations it has been used for reducing enlarged tonsils. Nearly 80% of American beer is treated with papain, which digests the precipitable protein fragments and then the beer remains clear on cooling. Papain is also used for degumming natural silk. But most of the papain imported in the U.S. is used for meat-tenderizers and chewing gums. Also used to extract the oil from tuna liver. Cosmetically it is used in some dentifrices, shampoos, and face-lifting preparations. Used to clean silks and wools before dying, and to remove hair from hides during tanning (Duke, 1984b). It is also used in the manufacture of rubber from Hevea (Morton, 1977). Recently, the FDA has cleared chymopapain for intradiscal injection in patients with documented herniated lumbar intervertebral discs whose signs and symptoms have not responded to conservative therapy over an adequate period of time (FDA Drug Bull. 12(3): 17-18). Fruit and seed extracts have pronounced bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherischia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Shigella flexneri (Emeruwa, 1982).

Folk Medicine

The juice is used for warts, cancers, tumors, corns, and indurations of the skin. Sinapisms prepared from the root are also said to help tumors of the uterus. Green fruit said to be ecbolic. Vermifugal seeds said to quench thirst. Leaves poulticed onto nervous pains and elephantoid growths. Roots said to cure piles and yaws. In Asia, the latex is smeared on the mouth of the uterus as ecbolic. The root infusion is used for syphilis in Africa. Leaf smoked for asthma relief in various remote areas. Javanese believe that eating papaya prevents rheumatism. Dietary papaya does reduce urine acidity in humans. Flowers have been used for jaundice. Experimentally papaya is hypoglycemic. Inner bark used for sore teeth. Latex used in

psoriasis, ringworm, and prescribed for the removal of cancerous growths in Cuba. (Duke, 1984b). Latex used locally as antiseptic. Seeds considered alexeritic, abortifacient, counter-irritant, emmenagogue, and anthelmintic. Infusion of roots said to remove urine concretions. Young leaves, and to lesser degree, other parts, contain carpain, an active bitter alkaloid, which has a depressing action on heart. Plant is strong amoebicide. Latex, used as dyspepsia cure, is applied externally to burns and scalds (Reed, 1976).

Chemistry

Per 100 g, the green fruit is reported to contain 26 calories, 92.1 g H2O, 1.0 g protein, 0.1 g fat, 6.2 g total carbohydrate, 0.9 g fiber, 0.6 g ash, 38 mg Ca, 20 mg P, 0.3 mg Fe, 7 mg Na, 215 mg K, 15 ug beta-carotene equivalent, 0.02 mg thiamine, 0.03 mg riboflavin, 0.3 mg niacin, and 40 mg ascorbic acid. Ranges reported for the ripe fruit are 32-45 calories, 87.1-90.8 g H2O, 0.4-0.6 g protein, 0.1 g fat, 8.3-11.8 g total carbohydrate, 0.5-0.9 g fiber, 0.4-0.6 g ash, 20-24 mg Ca, 15-22 mg P, 0.3-0.7 mg Fe, 3-4 mg Na, 221-234 mg K, 710-1050 ug beta-carotene equivalent, 0.03-0.04 mg thiamine, 0.03-0.05 mg riboflavin, 0.3-0.4 mg niacin, and 52-73 mg ascorbic acid. Per 100 g, the leaves are reported to contain 74 calories, 77.5 g H2O 7.0 g. protein, 2.0g fat, 11.3 g total charbohydrate 1. 8 g fiber, 2.2 g ash, 344 mg Ca, 142 mg P, 0.8 mg Fe, 16 mg Na, 652 mg K, 11,565 ug beta-carotene equivalent, 0.09 mg thiamine, 0.48 mg riboflavin, 2.1 mg niacin, and 140 mg ascorbic acid, as well 136 mg vitamin E. Leaves contain the glycoside, carposide, and the alkaloid, carpaine. Fresh leaf latex contains 75% water, 4.5% caoutchouc-like substances, 7% pectinous matter and salts, 0.44% malic acid, 5.3 papain, 2.4% fat, and 2.9% resin. Per 100 g, the seeds are reported to contain 24.3 g protein, 25.3 g fatty oil, 32.5 g total carbohydrate, 17.0 g crude fiber, 8.8 g ash, 0.09% volatile oil, a glycoside, caricin, and the enzyme, myrosin. The fatty oil of the seeds contains 16.97% saturated acids (11.38% palmitic, 5.25% stearic, and 0.31% arachidic) and 78.63% unsaturated acids (76.5% oleic and 2.13% linoleic). The seeds yield 660-760 mg BITC (bactericidal aglycone of glucotropaeolin benzyl isothiocyanate), a glycoside, sinigrin, the enzyme myrosin, and carpasemine. Flath and Forrey (1977) identified 106 volatile components in papaya. Fermentation with brewer's yeast and distillation yielded 4% alcohol, of which 91.8% was ethanol, 4.8%.methanol, 2.2% N-propanol, and 1.2% unknown (non-alcohol) (Sharma and Ogbeide, 1982).

Toxicity

Externally the latex is irritant, dermatogenic, and vescicant. Internally it causes severe gastritis. Some people are allergic to the pollen, the fruit, and the latex. Papain can induce asthma and rhinitis. The acrid fresh latex can cause severe conjunctivitis and vesication. According to Morton (1977) the latex will digest tissue and cause sores under rings and bracelets, while it has been used internally for malicious poisoning. Mitchell and Rook (1979) report a yellowing of the palms and soles caused by eating papaya. Anaphylaxis is reported in about 1% of cases of chymopapain injections."

 

Carica Papaya.—Papaw. Carica papaya Jacaratia spinosa

Related entry: Asimina.—Papaw

The juice of the fruit, and Papain, the digestive ferment, obtained from Carica Papaya, Linné (Papaya vulgaris, De Candolle).Nat. Ord.—Passifloraceae.COMMON NAMES: Papaw, Pawpaw, Mamaeiro.ILLUSTRATIONS: Botanical Register, Plate 459; Botanical Magazine, 2898 and 2899.

Botanical Source.—Carica Papaya is a tree indigenous to South America, where it is met with in its wild condition, as well as under cultivation, and varies in height, according to its wild or cultivated state, from 5 to 30 feet, and is about 1 foot in diameter (Rees' Cyclopaedia). The trunk or stem is simple, erect, without branches, and gradually tapers from the base to the summit, where it terminates in a cluster of leaves, after the manner of a palm. Its entire length is thickly covered with the scars of the fallen leaves. The leaves are large, alternate, close together, palmately divided into from 5 to 7 irregularly cut lobes, and are borne on leaf-stalks 1 or 2 feet in length, and which are peltately attached. The flowers are dioecious, rarely monoecious, and are grouped at the top of the trunk; the male flowers are borne on long peduncled racemes; the female flowers are solitary and axillary on short stalks, and consist of a small, 5-parted calyx, 5 twisted, pale-yellow petals and a large ovary, bearing 5 dilated, subsessile stigmas. The ovary is globular, 1-celled, and contains numerous ovules attached to 5 parietal placentae. As the ovary enlarges and develops, the leaves gradually fall off, and the fruit, when matured, appears suspended to the highest part of the smooth trunk (L.).

History.—The Carica constitute a family of phanerogamous plants, which grow in the East Indies and in South America, either in a natural state or cultivated. The following species have properties similar to those of C. Papaya: Carica spinosa, Well, a native of the provinces of Pernambuco, Rio do Janeiro, etc.; and Carica dodecaphylla, or jaracatia, a tree of high stature, with a trunk furnished with spines. When incised, this last gives a milky juice. Its fruit is smaller and longer than that of the Carica Papaya.

The Carica Papaya is cultivated throughout the greater part of Brazil, and its fruit bears some resemblance to that of the Cucurbitaceae, especially to the genus Cucumis. The fruit, when ripe, is yellow, irregularly ovoid, with 5 rib-like projections; it is pulpy, enclosing numerous blackish seeds, and has a rather agreeable, sweetish taste. The root is said to have an odor resembling that of rotten cabbage. In Brazil, the common name of the plant is mamaeiro, and the fruit is called mamao. The juice or milk proceeding from the bark or fruit is the part that has attracted attention. In 1850, Hoeferk stated that the juice was milky, bitter, and possessed the property of an irritant poison, and that, when mixed with water, it was used to soften tough meats, by

macerating them in the liquid. A. Pinto, A. Camara, and Martius have made nearly the same statements; and Pinto also remarks that it is used to render the skin of the hands soft, and to remove freckles from the face. In 1875, Dr. Roy, an English physician, instituted some experiments with the milky juice, and found that it had the property of softening and dissolving meats; a microscopic examination of the meats thus dissolved showed a complete disintegration of the muscular fibers, the fasciculi being dissociated, and the ultimate fasciculi in a fair way for separation. The entire fluid mass was swarming with vibriones. Other investigators have arrived at the same results.

Chemical Composition.—The milk of mamaeiro, whether from the bark or from the fruit, is so small in amount that a sufficient supply for instituting a regular chemical analysis can not be procured; the greatest quantity that has been obtained from a large number of trees and fruit is in all about 1 fluid ounce. Another circumstance which antagonizes analysis and interferes with investigation of its physiological and therapeutical effects, is the extraordinary rapidity with which it enters into fermentation, and which commences a few seconds after its extraction. The seeds of the fruit contain a resinous acid, which is probably their active principle. Dr. T. Peckolt obtained it by treating the fresh seeds with boiling alcohol and hydrate of lime, and then separating it by means of hydrochloric acid. It forms a yellowish powder, possessing a pungent taste.

The active principle or ferment of Carica Papaya, a true vegetable pepsin, formerly termed caricine, is now known as papain, or papayotin. Mauriac obtained it (from the leaves) by extracting the juice from those recently gathered and filtering it. To the turbid and yellowish-green filtrate, double its volume of absolute alcohol was added, and, gradually, a flocculent precipitate of papain formed upon the filter, slightly greenish and amorphous. This may be purified by new solutions and precipitations, and then carefully drying at a temperature not to exceed 40° C. (104° F.). Papain is obtained from the leaves in the proportion of 4 parts to 100. It is insoluble in alcohol, and perfectly soluble in distilled water. Nitric and hydrochloric acids, bicarbonate of sodium, or of potassium, and caustic potash have no action upon it. It may be employed as a solvent of albuminoid materials in certain forms of dyspepsia, and as an anthelmintic.

PAPAIN is an amorphous powder, white, or yellowish-white, practically odorless when pure, and has a feeble taste, almost imperceptible, Yet faintly suggestive of pepsin. Its composition, further than the fact that it contains 10.6 per cent of nitrogen, has not yet been determined. It dissolves in water and glycerin, the aqueous solution becoming turbid when boiled. Its peptonizing powers are said to be greater than those of pepsin, 0.1 part being capable of dissolving from 100 to 200 parts of moist blood fibrin (see Wurtz, Amer. Jour. Pharm., 1881). It acts under all conditions, whether in neutral, acid, or alkaline media, and is most energetic in the presence of a small amount of fluid. A considerable portion of the papain on the market is said to be practically inert.

In 1890, Dr. Greshoff, in Batavia (Java), discovered a new alkaloid in the leaves of Carica Papaya, which he named carpaine. It exists to the extent of 0.25 per cent in the dried and young leaves, but only in an amount of 0.07 per cent in old leaves; has a bitter taste, and a melting point of 121° C. (249.8° F.). The formula is C14H25NO2, and its physiological properties were

investigated by Dr. von Oefele, who found that, with the exception of the caffeine group, carpaine was the only digitalis substitute which, by subcutaneous injection, did not cause local irritation or abscesses, while internal doses of 0.025 Gm. per day did not show any advantage over digitalis (Amer. Jour. Pharm., 1893).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Without entering into a description of the varied experiments that have been made with the milk of carica, and concerning which an excellent account is given by Dr. Moncorvo, of Rio de Janeiro, in his translation of an article in the Portuguese language, entitled: "Note on the Physiological and Therapeutical Action of Carica Papaya," by Dr. E. Mauriac, we will simply refer to the conclusions drawn therefrom. This substance exerts a real dissolving or digestive action upon nitrogenized substances; this action is likewise obtained with it in aqueous solution, while its solution in alcohol appears to render it wholly inert. It has no action upon feculent substances. Applied upon the skin, it renders it softer and more smooth, and appears to destroy the projections formed at certain points by a greater or less thickening of the epidermis. Upon the skin deprived of its epidermis, and upon the subcutaneous cellular tissues, it has an extremely irritating action, provoking intense inflammation; and, in addition, the formation of abscesses, rapidly followed by a putrid infection when 30 grains were hypodermatically injected, these symptoms being preceded by severe pain, moaning, and great difficulty of motion. Upon the digestive mucous membrane it acts as a caustic and corrosive substance, its effects being rapid, violent, deep-seated, and occasioning energetic purgation. According to Desjardins, boiling removes these corrosive effects, and it then proves the most active vermifuge of the Materia Medica, in doses of 1 or 2 drachms, mixed with an equal quantity of castor-oil, a single dose being sufficient to cause the expulsion of an astonishing number of the lumbricoids. The seeds possess an identical property, and will probably be found preferable for administration. It is likewise said to cause the destruction and expulsion of the tapeworm. Various preparations of carica, are reputed abortifacient and galactagogue.

The chief property of the milk of the carica is its action upon food, similar to that of pepsin, exercising, like this latter article, a digestive influence upon albuminoid substances. But the difficulty of procuring and preserving a sufficient amount of it for therapeutical use, together with its deeply irritating action, will prevent it from coining into use as a remedy for dyspepsia or gastric affections. To overcome these obstacles, Dr. Mauriac instituted a series of experiments with the leaves of the tree, and found that a concentrated decoction of them exerted upon albuminoid substances an action analogous to that of the milky juice of the tree and of the green fruit, without any appreciable irritation of the gastric mucous membrane. This decoction must be administered in small doses. Dr. Mauriac and others, however, prefer papain, the action of which does not appear to be interfered with by an acid or neutral condition of the stomach, and which, being more energetic than pepsin, must be given in smaller doses, and in aqueous solution. Papain has been used in atonic and fermentative dyspepsia, with painful acid eructations, flatulence, and constipation.

The softening and disintegrating qualities of papain (generally in alkaline combination, as with borax or potassium carbonate), have been taken advantage of in the treatment of warts, corns, sinuses, and chronic forms of scaly eczema, cutaneous tubercles, and other hardness of the skin, produced by irritation, etc., and injected into indolent glandular tumors to promote their

absorption. Epithelioma has been similarly treated, but this painful procedure is not to be commended. Glossal fissures and ulcerations, and particularly syphilitic ulcerations of the throat, mouth and tongue, are asserted to have yielded to alkaline solutions of papain. Papain, in 6 per cent solution, when pure, is credited with the power to dissolve the false membranes of diphtheria and membranous croup. This can be accomplished only when the solution can be brought into contact with the membrane by means of brush or spray. It must be frequently applied as it has no power to prevent subsequent formation of the membranous exudate. A 5 per cent solution of papain, with sodium bicarbonate, 5 grains, warmed and instilled into the ear in quantities of 10 or 15 drops, and allowed to remain 1 hour, has given good results in chronic suppurative inflammation of the middle ear, with scanty, offensive discharge; the 5 per cent solution alone has been employed to remove hardened secretions from the auditory canal. The dose of papain is from 1 to 5 grains.

King's American Dispensatory, 1898, was written by Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph. D.

Fruit of the Angels: Papaya and Benefits

Papaya contains 'papain' which helps to digest food.

The papaya, is the fruit of the Carica papaya tree. Papayas are spherical or pear-shaped fruits that can be as long as 20 inches. The ones commonly found in the market usually average about 7 inches and weigh about one pound. Their flesh is a rich orange color with either yellow or pink hues. Inside the inner cavity of the fruit are black, round seeds encased in a gelatinous-like substance. Papaya's seeds are edible, although their peppery flavor is somewhat bitter.

Originally from southern Mexico and neighbouring countries, the papaya plant is now cultivated in most tropical countries. Christopher Columbus reportedly called it "the fruit of the angels" and not without reason! Papayas are rich sources of antioxidant nutrients, minerals and fibre.

The fruit, as well as the other parts of the papaya tree, contains papain, an enzyme that helps digest proteins. This enzyme, which is used to treat sports injuries, other causes of trauma, and

allergies, is especially concentrated in the fruit when it is unripe. Papain is extracted to make digestive enzyme dietary supplements and is also used as an ingredient in some chewing gums.

Health Benefits of Papaya

Heart disease: Papayas may be very helpful for the prevention of atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease.

Papayas are an excellent source of vitamin C as well as a very good source of vitamin E and beta-carotene, three very powerful antioxidants.

These nutrients help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. Only when cholesterol becomes oxidised is it able to stick to and build up in blood vessel walls, forming dangerous plaques that can eventually cause heart attacks or strokes.

High cholesterol: Papayas are also a very good source of fibre, which has been shown to lower high cholesterol levels.

The folic acid found in papayas is needed for the conversion of a substance called homocysteine into benign amino acids. If unconverted, homocysteine can directly damage blood vessel walls and is considered a significant risk factor for a heart attack or stroke.

Cancer: Papaya's fibre is able to bind to cancer-causing toxins in the colon and keep them away from the healthy colon cells.

In addition, papaya's folate, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and vitamin E have each been associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer. These nutrients provide synergistic protection for colon cells from free radical damage to their DNA.

Increasing your intake of these nutrients by enjoying papaya is an especially good idea for individuals at risk of colon cancer.

Inflammation: The enzymes contained in papaya have been shown to help lower inflammation and to improve healing from burns.

In addition, the antioxidant nutrients found in papaya are also very good at reducing inflammation. This may explain why people with diseases that are worsened by inflammation, such as asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, find that the severity of their condition is reduced when they get more of these nutrients.

A July 2004 study indicates that vitamin C-rich foods, such as papaya, provide humans with protection against inflammatory polyarthritis, a form of rheumatoid arthritis involving two or more joints. The findings, presented in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases were drawn from a study of more than 20,000 subjects who kept diet diaries and were arthritis-free when the study began.

Subjects who consumed the lowest amounts of vitamin C-rich foods were more than three times more likely to develop arthritis than those who consumed the highest amounts.

Other benefits: The fibre found in papayas may also help with the symptoms of those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.

In addition, vitamin C and vitamin A, which is made in the body from the beta-carotene in papaya, are both needed for the proper function of a healthy immune system. Papaya may therefore be a healthy fruit choice for preventing such illnesses as recurrent ear infections, colds and flu.

The Ayurveda experts have regarded papain as a remedy for abdominal disorders. It is a good medicine for dysentery, hyperacidity, dyspepsia and constipation.

Pimples are removed by rubbing the white pulp of raw papaya on the face. It brings lustre to the face and removes wrinkles.

Carica Papaya

Botanical Classification | Family | Other Names | Habitat | Morphology

Chemical Constituents | Pharmacology | Toxicology

Plant part used | Indication | Uses

   

Botanical Classification  

Kingdom Plantae

Division Magnoliophyta

Class Magniliopsida

Order Brassicales

Family Caricaceae

Genus Carica

species papaya

   

Family 

Botanical -Caricaceae

Ayurvedic - Errand karkati kul

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Other Names

English-papaya or pawpaw Hindi- Papita Gujarati- Papye Sanskrit- Errand karkati Portuguese- Pepita

 

Habitat This plant is native of America, more precisely central and South America. It got spread all over world by the traders and in India it came by Portugal traders. It is now found all over the world. The best climatic condition for its cultivation is the tropical region that suits its growth. Now days it is more commonly seen in India and south eastern countries like Malaysia and Philippines.

 

Morphology It is a small tree with no branches and bears a single stem or trunk. It can reach up to the height of 30 feet. Trunk is strait and long. Leaves are spirally arranged and are placed on top of the trunk. The lower portion of the truck bears scars, left after the falling of the leaves that beared it. Leaves are big in size and are about 2 to 3 feet in diameter. These are deeply palmated and are divided into several lobes. Flowers are beared in the axils of the leaves, heading toward the size of 1 foot in maturity. Flower is monosexual. Flower is of greenish white to white in colour. Female flower is bigger in size than male flower. Fruit is big in size and is of green colour when in unripe condition. It attains yellow colour when it is ripe and also becomes soft. Fruits are found in bunch on the top of the tree. Seeds are found in fruit which are small in size and in large

number.

 

Chemical Constituents It contains following chemical compounds

Papain Carpaine Certain alkaloids Flavonols Linalool Nicotine Chymopapain Psedocarpine Butonic acid Tannins Amino acid like glutamic acid, arginine, proline and aspartic acid are present in the

endosperm of the seed and proline, tyrosine, lysine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid are also present in the sarcotesta of the seed

 

Pharmacology It has a great effect on the digestive tract of our body. It purifies the tract and helps in removing toxins from our body. Papain, carpaine and psedocarpine present in papaya act on the heart and respiratory system but easily gets destroyed by the heat. Papain also fins its usage in treating ulcers, diphtheria where it is helpful in dissolving the membrane. It is also employed in reducing the swellings and fevers. Extract of chemopapain has been used in ailments related to disc prolepses and slip disc. The freshly derived papaya seeds possess a glycone that has the bacteriostatic, bactericidal, amoebicidal and fungicidal action. Amino acids present in the papaya helps in providing growth and improve immunity of the body. Flavones help in avoiding early aging activities in the body. Phyto-chemicals present in papaya has a progesterone suppressing action.

According to ayurveda it contains

Gunna (properties) - laghu (light), ruksh (unctuousness ), tikshan (sharpness) Rasa (taste) - katu (pungent), tickt (bitter) Virya (potency) - ushan (hot)

 

Toxicology No toxic effect was seen on human body with Carica papaya consumption

 

Plant part used Fruit, leaves, milk and seeds

 

Indication 

1. Throat infections 2. Indigestions 3. Constipation 4. Worm infestation 5. Liver weak aliments 6. Swellings, wounds and freckles 7. Paralysis 8. Menstrual disturbances 9. Urine infections 10. Skin diseases 11. Blood purification 12. Respiratory disorders.

 

Uses  It is used in following diseases.

1. Tropical action - the latex extracted from papaya has been a asset in treating cases of boils, warts, burns wounds, freckles and has been very successfully used as vermifuge. In India it has been used tropically as the irritant of uterus that leads to abortion.

2. Decoction- decoction of papaya has been used to get rid of worms from gastrointestinal tract, especially round worms. Enema of decoction of papaya also helps in evacuation of the baby from the womb. Decoction is also helpful in paralytic condition

3. Powder extract- it is helpful in removing all the ailments involving digestives disturbances. It increases appetite. It also acts as purgative. It helps in avoiding rheumatism. It is also helpful in strengthening the liver. It helps in avoiding the blockage in the urinary tract and allows free flow of urine. Menstrual pain is also relieved by consuming papaya. It also purifies the blood and removes all the toxicity from it.

4. Milk from trunk and ripe fruit- this milk is very effective in treating the throat infections. It is also very helpful treating the wounds caused on the tongue. Skin related problems like psoriasis, rashes are also been treated by it. Its local application is very effective in treating Tumors and swellings. It is also helpful when applied on the string bites by Scorpio.

5. Inhalation of smoke of the leaves of papaya or smoking the leaves of papaya is very effective in relieving from asthmatic attack.

 

Papaya Nutritional Values, Benefits and Side Effects

Probably, papaya is native to Central America. The papaya is a melon like fruit with yellow-orange flesh enclosed in a thin skin that varies in color from green to orange to rose. Today papaya can be found all year long

with the peak season being early summer and fall. Most of the papayas imported come from Hawaii, but smaller quantities from Florida, California, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Central and South American countries are becoming more available.

Look for papayas that are partly or completely yellow in color. Papayas that are hard and green are immature and will not ripen properly. Uncut papayas have no smell. Papayas that are cut should smell sweet, not bad or fermented. Slightly green papayas will ripen quickly at room temperature, especially if placed in a paper bag. As the papaya ripens, it will turn from green to yellow. Place ripe papayas in a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator. Papayas will keep for up to a week, but it's best to use them within a day or two.

There are two types of papayas, the Hawaiian and Mexican. The Hawaiian varieties also known as Solo papayas, are found most often in supermarkets. These fruits are pear shaped, weigh about a pound each, and have yellow skin when ripe. The flesh is bright orange or pinkish, depending on the variety. The Mexican varieties are not as common but can be found in Latino supermarkets. Mexican papayas are much larger then the Hawaiian types and can weigh up to 20 pounds and be more than 15 inches long. Although the flavor is less intense than the Hawaiian varieties, they are still delicious and enjoyable.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS ABOUT PAPAYAPapayas are a rich source of vitamin A and C. One half of a small papaya can provide 150% of the recommended dietary intake of Vitamin C. It is low in calories, fat free, cholesterol free, and a good source of potassium, folate, and fiber.

USE OF PAPAYAThe papaya enzyme called papain, is used as a meat tenderizer. It breaks down tough meat fibers. Its use is nothing new. South American cooks have been using papaya to tenderize meat for ages. It is sold as a component in powdered meat tenderizer available in most supermarkets.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PAPAYA

Consumption of papaya may cut risk of certain cancers.

Researchers conducted a study of 165 cases to evaluate the role of diet in gallbladder carcinogenesis. They found that consumption of radish, green chilli, sweet potato, mango, orange, melon, papaya, cruciferous vegetables, beans, onion and turnip are linked with low risk of gallbladder cancer. [3]

Papaya is a good source of nutrients and some phyto-chemicals such as beta-cryptoxanthin and benzyl isothiocyanates. It is believed that these phytochemicals may offer benefits on certain chronic conditions such as cancers.Dietary tocopherols and carotenoids have been believed to cut risks of certain cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Researchers observed that subjects that frequently consumed papaya, tangerine, orange or watermelon had high plasma beta-cryptoxanthin concentrations. [2]

In vitro studies, isothiocyanates induced apoptosis in various cancer cell lines and experimental rodents via modulation of multiple signal-transduction pathways and apoptosis intermediates. Recently, Japanese researchers recently has shown the benzyl isothiocyanate extracted from papaya could also induce toxicity more preferentially in the proliferating human colon epithelial cells than in the quiescent cells. [1]

Other possible benefits of papaya

Researchers suggested the use of Carica papaya to treat symptoms related to venous and lymphatic vessel insufficiency, and other free-radicals conditions. [4,6] Fruit juice of Carica papaya demonstrates blood pressure lowering activities via alpha-adrenoceptor route in a study of mice. [5]

Side effects of Papaya ConsumptionThough marketers suggest that papaya consumption lowers high cholesterol levels, researchers actually noticed a significant increase of plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride level after four weeks of excessive papaya consumptions in a study. [7] Definitely, more studies are needed to confirm this observation.

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR YOUR REFERENCE ONLY. YOU SHOULD CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR ANY QUESTION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2008 ZHION

REFERENCE[1] Nakamura Y, Miyoshi N. Cell death induction by isothiocyanates and their underlying molecular mechanisms. Biofactors. 2006;26(2):123-34. [2] Irwig MS, et al, Frequent intake of tropical fruits that are rich in beta-cryptoxanthin is associated with higher plasma beta-cryptoxanthin concentrations in Costa Rican adolescents. J Nutr. 2002 Oct;132(10):3161-7. [3] Pandey M, Shukla VK. Diet and gallbladder cancer: a case-control study. Eur J Cancer Prev. 2002 Aug;11(4):365-8. [4] Savickiene N, et al, Importance of biologically active components and plants in the prevention of complications of diabetes mellitusMedicina (Kaunas). 2002;38(10):970-5. [5] Eno AE, Owo OI, Itam EH, Konya RS. Blood pressure depression by the fruit juice of Carica papaya (L.) in renal and DOCA-induced hypertension in the rat. Phytother Res. 2000 Jun;14(4):235-9. [6] Imao K, Wang H, Komatsu M, Hiramatsu M. Free radical scavenging activity of fermented papaya preparation and its effect on lipid peroxide level and superoxide dismutase activity in iron-induced epileptic foci of rats. Biochem Mol Biol Int. 1998 Jun;45(1):11-23. [7] Rahmat A, Abu Bakar MF, Faezah N, Hambali Z. The effects of consumption of guava (psidium guajava) or papaya (carica papaya) on total antioxidant and lipid profile in normal male youth. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2004;13(Suppl):S106.

Papain

Papain is in the dried latex obtained from the papaya fruit (Carica papaya L). The papaya, also known as mamao, tree melon, or pawpaw, is the fruit of the tree Carica papaya. Carica papaya is a small unbranched tree, the single stem growing to 5-10 m tall, with the spirally arranged leaves confined to the top of the trunk; the lower trunk is conspicuously scarred with the leaf scars of where older leaves and fruit were borne. The leaves are large, 50-70 cm diameter, deeply palmately lobed with 7 lobes. The flowers are produced in the axils of the leaves, maturing into the large 15-45 cm long, 10-30 cm diameter fruit. The fruit is ripe when it feels soft (like a ripe avocado or a bit softer) and its skin has attained an amber to orange hue. The papaya has an orange color when ripe, and it's bland flavor resembles that of a summer squash, making it a nice complement to the shaper flavors of other fruits. Green papaya is often used as an ingredient in chutney or relishes and makes a nice main dish when stuffed. Papain is obtained by cutting the skin of the unripe but almost mature papaya and then collecting and drying the latex which flows from the cuts.

Papain is proteolytic, which means that it digests proteins. Papain hydrolyzes proteins to form oligopeptides and amino acids. Papain has milk-clotting (rennet) and protein digesting properties

and is active over a wide pH range, papain is useful in medicine, combatting dyspepsia and other digestive orders. Papain also contains the proteolytic enzyme chymopapain which differs from papain in electrophoretic mobility, solubility and substrate specificity. Papain hydrolyzes proteins and has a proteolytic capacity (digests proteins). Papain has the ability to digest dead tissue without affecting the surrounding live tissue. On the skin, it dissolves dead skin cells as it softens and brightens. Papain breaks down proteins is used to remove dead tissue from burns, to help skin injuries heal, to remove warts, and to treat ringworm. Papain contains 212 amino acids and is also rich in malic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid. Papain has putative anti-inflammatory activity. The activity of papain is expressed in papain units or PU.

Papain has a wealth of industrial uses. Papain is used in the pharmaceutical industry, in medicine as well as in the food processing industry. Papain is used in digestive aids and as the active ingredient in enzyme cleaners for soft contact lenses. Papain is included in prescription combinations of digestive enzymes to replace what individuals with cystic fibrosis or pancreas conditions cannot produce naturally. Papain is employed to assist protein digestion in chronic dyspepsia, gastric fermentation, and gastritis. Its activity is exerted both in the stomach and intestines. Cosmetically it is used in some dentifrices, shampoos, and face-lifting preparations. It is used to clean silks and wools before dying, and to remove hair from hides during tanning. Papain is a proteolytic enzyme that tenderises meat and can act as a clarifying agent in many food industry processes. It is a common ingridient in brewery and meat processing. Papain is also used in the tanning of leather and has applications in the paper and adhesive industries as well as in sewage disposal.

PAPAYA (PAWPAW) RECIPES

Papaya originated from tropical American countries and is now grown worldwide. Even though it is a tropical plant it may be grown with success as an indoor plant in colder climates. The leaves, fruit, skin, seeds, flowers, latex and roots may be used in a variety of concoctions. The leaves may be dried, (24C) stored in a cool dry place and used as a herbal tea. The fruit may be sliced, dried in a dehydrator (24C) and stored as for any other dried fruit.

The flesh of the mature green papaya is very high in papain (an enzyme that is used in a dried form to tenderise meat). Papain and other plant enzymes are able to tolerate a wide range of PH so that they are able to work both in an acid stomach and an alkaline small intestine. The flesh of the mature green papaya may be used to assist in the digestion, thereby taking pressure of the pancreas. It is reported that the enzymes in papaya are able to digest undigested debris in the intestinal tract. The enzymes in papaya are used to ripen the fruit so that by the time a papaya is fully ripe, very few enzymes are left.

It goes without saying that the papaya be grown without the use of pesticides or chemicals, especially if you are going to use the leaves or the skin or the fruit.

Papaya SproutsThe seeds of ripe papaya are very easy to germinate. Just bury them about 1/2 inch under good composted soil in a planter box or directly in the garden. If the weather is warm they will germinate in less

than a week. If you live in a cold climate then place the planter box in a warm place (30C) , such as on top of a water heater. When the plants reach about 20cm high they may be harvested and the entire plant used to make a tea, added to sauerkraut, or blended in a banana smoothie.

Papaya TeaChop up three leaves and cook in one litre of water. Simmer until the water is reduced to half, strain and store in the refrigerator. Fifty ml, three times a day is considered to be a therapeutic dose. For preventative measures it is used in much the same way that the Japanese drink green tea.

Papaya tea goes off within about 3 days so if you do not have a fresh supply then you may consider preserving the leaves and fruit either by drying or lacto-fermentation.

Papaya PepperThe seeds may be dried in a dehydrator then ground in a mortar and pestle, and used like pepper.

Papaya SauerkrautThe flesh of the mature green papaya makes a pleasantly bitter sauerkraut. For therapeutic purposes the skin may be left on but it will make it very bitter. The skin is reputed to have the same beneficial effects as the leaves.

Kombucha Papaya TeaPapaya tea may be used in place of black tea to make a Kombucha tea. The papaya tea extract may also be preserved by mixing one part papaya tea with three parts of Kombucha tea. You may also preserve the peel of the mature green papaya in Kombucha tea that has gone to vinegar.

Papaya SmoothiePapaya smoothies are very easy to make. Just blend ripe papaya with banana and your choice of fruits such as passion fruit or orange. Add raw milk or kefir for additional nutrition and flavour.

For added health benefits, instead of a ripe papaya, use mature green papaya with or without the skin. As mature green papaya may be quite hard, it may help to grate the green papaya before blending it.

Ripe papaya also makes a delicious desert. Chop the papaya into 1 inch cubes then sprinkle with lemon juice.

Illnesses And Their Traditional Treatment with PapayaHarald Tietze lists about fifty ailments, including cancer, that respond well to papaya. You may wish to do an internet search for more information on Stan Sheldon who claims he cured himself and others of cancer with papaya.

CautionsIn rare cases people have been allergic to the pollen of papaya. The latex from the plant or green fruit may burn the lips. Pregnant women should avoid recipes containing unripe fruit, skins, leaves, seeds or latex since this may lead to an abortion. Over dosing may have negative effects. Women from traditional societies used papaya as a contraceptive.

Reference: Harald W. Tietze, Papaya (Pawpaw) The Medicine Tree 2nd edition, 1997.

12 Points on MATURE GREEN PAPAYA (PAWPAW)Written and compiled by Dr John Whitman Ray N.D., M.D. (M.A.)

1. Mature Green Papaya (Pawpaw) contains an excellent source of enzymes, minerals and vitamins. Mature Green Papaya contains more Vitamin A than carrots, more Vitamin C than oranges, abundant Vitamin B factors and Vitamin E. Mature Green Papaya also contains a complex of' enzymes that help digest proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The Mature Green Papaya (Pawpaw) should be used totally with skin, flesh and seeds. The papaya should be chemical free. The papain in the entire pawpaw observed as a white sap or fluid is not found in the ripe pawpaw. Blend the Mature Green Pawpaw with other fresh fruits to make a splendid flavoured smoothie drink which, when consumed at the time of blending will be full of enzymes which will be of maximum benefit to the consistent user.

2. Papain is the principal and most active enzyme in the Mature Green Papaya. Papain possesses a very powerful digestive action superior to pepsin and pancreatin. Changes in intestinal alkalinity or acidity do not interfere with the unique digestive activity of papain. Papain breaks down meat fibres, thereby rendering nutrients available to the digestive process'. This emphasized the need for papain in the diet of meat eaters as well as vegetarians.

3. Papain, one of the most powerful plant proteolytic enzymes, is a catalytic agent that will act in protein digestion in an acid, alkaline or neutral medium. This is of vital importance for those with enzyme deficiency problems as well as for those with low hydrochloric acid output in the stomach. Remember, the pepsin produced in the stomach required for protein digestion is activated only in an acid medium. This requires a healthy output of hydrochloric acid, which is insufficient in most people. Due to the powerful proteolytic action of papain, a more active protein digestant than pepsin, a major digestive problem for most people will be helped by the daily ingestion of Mature Green Papaya.

4. A major problem in our diets today is that we only partially digest the protein foods we consume. This is due in part to the insufficient hydrochloric acid output by the stomach. These partially digested proteins help attribute to rnucoprotein build up in the body. This is due to the undigested protein molecules making their way into the system and eventually finding their way into the interstitial spaces and accumulating there as mucoprotein, as polysaccharide-protein combination. This mucoprotein is also known as trapped plasma protein. The proteolytic action of' papain can digest the protein we consume so that the accumulation of trapped plasma protein can be prevented. The accumulation of mucoprotein in the interstitial spaces and lymphatic system is the basic cause of lymphatic congestion.

5. Mature Green Papaya possesses antiseptic qualities and helps prevent the abnormal proliferation of undesirable bacteria in the intestines. The pH of the intestines is then kept normalized with the addition of acidophilus which aids in normalizing the intestinal flora.

6. Papain, found abundantly in the Mature Green Papaya (pawpaw), acts as a powerful mucus and pus solvent. Papain helps to cleanse the tissues and intestinal walls of all waste matter in the form of excessive mucus and dead tissue. Papain in the whole papaya or in the Mature Green Papaya is harmless to living tissue and is a must for the maintenance of health in the intestinal tract.

7. In scientific studies using papain as a digestant, it has been established that proteins are "actually chemically transformed into all the various amino acids that are so vital to human nutrition". Papain has the property to transform albumanoids into peptones in either an acid, alkaline or neutral medium, making it superior to pepsin.

8. Arginine, one of the essential amino acids, is not normally produced within the body, but must be obtained as a component of a few foods such as eggs and brewer's yeast. These foods must be eaten with some regularity if the reproductive organs are to function properly. However, when papain is allowed to act upon many kinds of proteins it has a singular distinctive power of converting a portion of the protein mass to arginine, even in the intestine.

9. This unique ability of papain to break down protein and to convert a portion of it into arginine is extremely important because arginine in its natural form has been found to influence the production of the

human growth hormone or HGH. HGH is produced in the pituitary gland and is directly responsible for DNA and RNA replication as well as synthesis in liver, muscle, cartilage and adipose tissues. Arginine ingested in connection with exercise has been found to raise the production of HGH significantly. This HGH helps to increase muscle tone and decrease the amount of body fat. Arginine has also been found to inhibit the growth of human breast cancer cells in test tube studies.

10. The papain in the Mature Green Papaya (pawpaw) works to break down various protein foods so that the individual amino acids are produced and auto-intoxicating or other undesirable, undigested substances are avoided. High blood pressure, constipation, arthritis, epilepsy , and diabetes are only a few of the ailments aggravated by incomplete protein digestion. While the presence of papain may not always prevent these abnormalities, it has the power to help regulate these abnormalities through proper digestion.

11. The Mature Green Papaya (pawpaw) contains several enzymes in addition to the papain used for protein digestion. Carbohydrates and fat digestion can be accomplished by the enzymes found in the Mature Green Papaya. These papaya enzymes have the ability to infiltrate the tissues. By this means, it can help dissolve injured and hardened tissues, thus tending to alleviate hardening of the arteries.

In scientific studies using proteolytic enzymes it has been fully established that the immune system is greatly enhanced by the ingestion of proteolytic enzymes. Papain is the number one plant proteolytic enzyme thus placing it in a very important position to help maintain optimum health through an active immune system that is often destroyed by toxic mercury from silver amalgam fillings, fluoride additives to the water, toothpaste and children's mouthwash well as chemical sprays such as malathion and paraquat.

12. Papaya is the only known food containing papain, the active principal enzyme in Mature Green Papaya. Remember, it digests protein thoroughly and frees the amino acids for quick absorption by the body. Since it acts impartially in acid, neutral and alkaline mediums, it is extremely valuable for the aged or anyone who has weak digestion due to enzyme deficiencies that have developed over the years. These 12 points establish the Mature Green Papaya (pawpaw) as a superior food to ensure proper digestive activity.

REFERENCE: The above 12 points are copyright Dr John Whitman Ray and were given to me in photocopied form, by one of one his students (Kyle Grimshaw-Jones) in the mid 1990's, when Dr John visited Queensland for training purposes. I am unsure of who to approach re copyright permissions but have published this page in the belief that Dr John would probably have given me permission. If you know of anything to the contrary then please email me if I am incorrect in this assumption.

MEASUREMENTS1 teaspoon = 5 ml / 5 gm. 1 tablespoon = 15 ml / 15 gm. 15 tablespoons = 1 cup / 225 ml. 1 cup = 8 fluid oz / 225 ml. 1 US gallon = 3.6 litres. 1 lb = 16 oz / 454 gm. Temperature 20C = 68F. Conversion from Fahrenheit to Celsius: C = ( F - 32) / 1.8. Conversion from Celsius to Fahrenheit: F = C 1.8 + � � � � �32  

Papaya - Natural Benefits and Curative Properties

Botanical Name :: Carica papaya

Indian Name :: Papita

Description

The papaya has been regarded as one of the most valuable of tropical fruits. It is a large, fleshy. hollow berry up to 50-60 cm. in diameter and usually weighs from 1/2 kg. to 2 kg. It is cylindrical or pear-shaped. The central cavity is surrounded by hundreds of small seeds, though sometimes seedless varieties of the fruit are also found.

The fruit has a thin smooth skin. It is dark green in color at first, but as the papaya ripens, it changes to bright yellowish or orange. Inside, the thick juicy flesh has a soft melting quality, and may be yellow or pink. It has a delicate aroma and delicious flavor.

Origin and Distribution

Papaya appears to have originated .in southern Mexico and Costa Rica. It was taken by the Spaniards to Manila in the mid-16th century and gradually.spre~d to all tropical and subtropical countries. It is now widely cultivated in India, China, Sri Lanka, Malaya, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, Central and South Africa, Philippines, Australia and on most of the Pacific islands.

Food Value

Papaya is regarded as a wholesome fruit. The daily requirements of some of the essential nutrients like proteins, mineral and vitamins can be met from this fruit. The vitamin C contents in papaya increases as the maturity progresses. Its carbohydrate content is mainly of invert sugar which is a form of predigested food.

Papaya*

Food Value Minerals and Vitamins

Moisture - 90.8% Calcium - 17 mg

Protein - 0.6% Phosphorus - 13 mg

Fat - 0.1% Iron - 0.5 mg

Minerals - 0.5% Vitamin C - 57 mg

Carbohydrates - 7.2% Small amount of Vitamin B Complex

Fibre - 0.8%

* Value per 100 gm's edible portion Calorific Value - 32

Natural Benefits and Curative Properties of Papaya

The papaya has remarkable medicinal virtues which were fully recognized even in ancient times. It is not only one of the most easily digested fruits, but it also aids the digestion of other foods. Ripe papaya is excellent tonic for growing children, for pregnant women and nursing mothers. It is an energy giving food.

Digestive Aid :- Modern scientific investigations into the properties of the papaya have confirmed many of the ancient beliefs in its virtues. The most important of these virtues is the discovery of a proteindigesting enzyme in the milky juice or latex, which is carried in a network of vessels throughout the plant. The enzyme is similar to pepsin in its digestive action and is reputed to be so powerful that it can digest 200 times its own weight in protein. Its effect is to assist the body's own enzymes in assimilating the maximum nutritional value from food to provide energy and body building materials.

Intestinal Disorders :- Papain in the raw papaya is highly beneficial in the deficiency of gastric juice, excess of unhealthy mucus in the stomach, in dyspepsia and intestinal irritation. The ripe fruit, if eaten regularly, corrects habitual constipation, bleeding piles and chronic diarrhea. The juice of the papaya seeds is also useful in dyspepsia and bleeding piles.

Roundworms :- The digestive enzyme, papain in the milky juice of the unripe papaya is powerful anthelmintic for (i.e. which has the power to destroy) roundworms. A tablespoonful of the fresh juice and equal quantity of honey should be mixed with three to four tablespoonful of hot water and taken as a dose by an adult. This dose should be followed two hours later by a dose of 30 to 60 ml. of castor oil mixed in 250-375 ml. of luke warm milk. This treatment should be repeated for two days, if necessary. For children of 7 to 10 years, half the above doses should be given. For children under three years. a teaspoonful is sufficient. Papaya seeds are also useful for this purpose, they are rich in a substance called caricin which is a very effective medicine for expelling roundworms. The alkaloid carpaine found in the leaves has also the power to destroy or expel intestinal worms. They are given with honey.

Skin Disorders :- The juice of the raw papaya, being an irritant, is useful in several skin disorders. It is applied with beneficial results to swellings to prevent pus formation or suppuration and to corns, warts, pimples horn, an excrescence or an abnormal outgrowth of the skin and other skin diseases. The juice as a cosmetic, removes freckles or brown spots due to exposure to sunlight and makes the skin smooth and delicate. A paste of the papaya seeds is applied in skin diseases like ringworm.

Menstrual Irregularities :- The unripe papaya helps the contraction of the muscle fibres of the womb and is thus beneficial in securing proper menstrual flow. It is especially helpful in case of cessation of menstruation due to exposure to the cold or due to fright in young unmarried girls.

Cirrhosis of the liver :- Black seeds of papaya are highly beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver caused by alcoholism, malnutrition etc. A tablespoonful of juice obtained by grinding the seeds, mixed with ten drops of fresh lime juice, should be gIVen once or twice daily for about a month as a medicine for this diseases.

Throat Disorders : - Fresh juice of raw papaya mixed with honey can be applied with beneficial results over inflamed tonsils for diphtheria and other throat disorders. It dissolves the membrane and prevents infection from spreading.

Spleen Enlargement :- Ripe papaya is highly valuable in enlargement of the spleen. The fruit should be skimi.ed, cut into pieces and immersed in vinegar for a week. About 20 grams of the fruit thus preserved should be consumed twice with meals in the treatment of this disease.4 Slices of peeled raw fruit with cumin seeds and pepper can also be used once daily to cure enlargement of the spleen due to malaria.

Uses

Papaya is used in a variety of ways. The ripe fresh fruits are eaten throughout the tropics for breakfast and dessert, and in fruit salads. They are used for making soft drinks, jams and ice-cream flavoring. They are also canned in syrup. Unripe fruits are generally taken as a vegetable.

Papain, prepared from the dried latex of immature fruits is used in meat-tenderizing preparation, manufacture of chewinggum, in cosmetics and as a drug for digestive ailments.

Extracts from Fresh Plant Material

The majority of herbs are used in their dried form. There are those, however, which must be used in their fresh form to be useful as medicinals, since they lose their healing properties when dried. One herb of common usage (if we are to judge by retail sales of the extract) is Echinacea. Since this is easy to grow in the home garden and simple to make in the kitchen, this one will serve as the best example.

Echinacea purpurea is the one most commonly employed for medicinal purposes, but Native Americans had a number of different usages for the several varieties which were found in abundance. Both E. angustifolia and E. pallida can be used in place of E. purpurea for the purpose of boosting the immune system.

In fact, E. angustifolia was once the variety of choice for a wide range of ailments thought to require 'blood cleansing' and formed the basis for many of the 'snake-oil' nostrums of another era.

The difficulty in using fresh plant material is knowing what the ratio should be for each particular herb. It requires access to some very expensive tomes of scholarly work on the subject.

On the other hand, simply browsing the extract shelves of your local health food or herb store will give you valuable information. The ratio should be written clearly on the label. Be sure it is a standard extract and not one of those which purport to be 'super' strength or made by some process other than the familiar water/alcohol extraction method.

On the whole it is far safer to avoid experimenting with fresh extracts, other than the echinacea, unless you pursue some very serious study on the matter.

As wholesome as herbs seem, please remember that allergies to some herbs are common. Echinacea belongs to the same family as ragweed (Compositae - daisy family) and some people can be allergic to other members of this same family.

Although I am using specific amounts as a guide to make a reasonable amount of extract, it is not necessary to think in these amounts when doing this for yourself. This particular extract will be made in a 1 to 3 ratio (1 part herb to 3 parts liquid).

Sounds pretty straight forward until we remember that part of our liquid is already locked up in the plant material.

Uh oh - now what?

How do I separate the liquid weight from the dry weight?

(If you feel your anxiety level rising - screaming is permitted)

If you have a microwave or an oven - you can stop screaming. The process isn't that bad, but you might want to get out a calculator to help you with those mummified math skills you thought you'd never need after high school graduation.

We want 2 oz. of freshly dug, washed and patted dry Echinaea root (allow as much moisture as possible to dry from the root before weighing and processing). We also want another 1 or 2 oz. of root to test for water content.

Echinacea root should be harvested in its second year after one or two hard frosts.

Weigh your sample piece for testing.

Let us use 2 oz. as an example.

Coarsely chop the plant material and place on paper towels in the microwave and begin to slowly dry out the root at 50% power until it is quite dry. Or you can do the test several days in advance, get your results and go back and harvest more root for the extract.

Other methods of drying (but requiring more time) are to slowly dry the coarsely chopped material in a low-heat oven or on a dehydrator tray.

When the plant material is dry, weigh it again.

What is the weight now?

Deduct it from the original fresh weight and figure the percentage.

For the sake of argument, let us say that we began with 2 oz. of fresh root and now have 1 oz. of dry root - that would mean the plant contained 50% water or 1 oz. of liquid. This is the information we need to proceed. We will be making 6 oz. of extract with 2 oz. being equal to 1 'part' of the 3 parts of liquid.

Procedure

Step 1: Coarsely chop the root and place in a blender. We have 2 oz. of root which we know to be 50% water after drying our sample.

Since we are using a 50/50 water-alcohol medium to extract the plant properties and we know that we already have 1 oz. of water in the plant material, it merely remains to add enough pure alcohol

(and *water if necessary) to make up the first 'part' of our formula. The closest we can get to pure alcohol is 190 proof (Please! no open flames or heated surfaces around this stuff! Extremely flammable).

(*If our plant material had been 40% water, we would add 1 oz. of alcohol plus a small amount of distilled water to make up the 10% difference.)

There are two products which can be purchased at this strenth - Everclear and Clear Spring.

Step 2: The water portion of the plant material is now accounted for in Step 1 and all that remains is to add the remaining 2 parts of liquid which is 50% water and 50% alcohol. Pour 4 oz. of 100 proof vodka (remember that this is 50% alcohol and 50% water) into the blender.

You now have root, pure alcohol, and the vodka in the blender. Of the liquid portion - 3 oz. is alcohol and 3 oz is water. There is 6 oz. of liquid to 2 oz of fresh root (part of which is water and accounted for). This makes a 1 to 3 ratio.

Step 3: Run the blender until the plant material is as fine as it is going to get and everything is well mixed. Pour the contents from the blender into a wide-mouth jar. Cap, label, and date the jar.

Allow this to steep in a warm spot out of direct light for a period of 2 weeks, remembering to shake the jar each day.

Step 4: After 2 weeks, strain the liquid from the solids through muslin or fine cheesecloth and extract as much of the liquid as you can. Strain the liquid again through a paper coffee filter.

Store the liquid extract in an amber dropper bottle and clearly label the bottle in this way:

"Echinacea1:3 ratio

dosage = 5 to 15 drops daily when needed"

Okay - I used nice round numbers and your mental gears are still working around that little conundrum of "how much water is 10% of the whole needed?" that I managed to sneak past you in Step 1. I don't do 'brain-strain' well, but I can come pretty close to the exact amount by using the following chart and so will you.

1 oz = 2 Tbsp = 600 drops1/2 oz = 1 Tbsp = 300 drops1/4 oz = 1/2 Tbsp = 150 drops 1 tsp = 100 drops 1/2 tsp = 50 drops1/4 tsp = 25 drops

So what is 10% of 1 oz?

It's the same as 10% of 600 drops - which is?

Bingo! You got it! 60 drops of distilled water.

Amazingly simple stuff and you can pat yourself on the back now. Always remember that 600 drops equals 1 oz. and that 100 drops equals 1 tsp. The rest will be easy to figure from there.

Now that your breathing easier, we can get into heart attack territory.

What if your plant material is 60% or even 70% water? After all - plants are rarely so obliging as to be 50% water. I should really end my discussion at this point ...... I'm thinking about it ........ nah -

I'd be bombarded with email!!!

The total liquid is supposed to be 6 oz.

If your plant material is 75% water, then you already have 1½ oz of water locked up inside it.

Since a 50/50 liquid solution totaling 6 oz. is 3 oz. of water and 3 oz. of alcohol, it merely remains to add the other 1½ oz. of water to make up the complete total required.

Then you add the 3 oz. of pure alcohol and your liquid measurements are complete. These are placed in the blender and completed as above.

**Sterile (boiled) water is ALWAYS used in preparing products for home use**

HAVING SAID ALL OF THE ABOVE, I have offered it in the interest of serious herbal pursuit. For most home use, simply combining 2 oz. of fresh root with 6 oz. of 100 proof vodka, blending and following the above procedure for 2 weeks of steeping is all that is need to produce a working product. Simply allow an extra drop or two in the dosage to account for a slightly watered down version.

If the use of alcohol is not appealing to you, it is also possible to use 1 part herb to 5 parts vinegar in the same manner to extract the plant properties. It will not be as potent a blend though, since alcohol is required to extract certain plant compounds.

Extracts from Dried Plant Material

Extracts made from dried plant material comprise most of the herbal extract types. The standard ratio used when making a dry herb extract, also known as a tincture, is:

1 part dried herb to 8 parts liquid.

This is written as 1:8

Locating this ratio number on a purchased extract will tell you its strength.

Essentially, making a dried herbal extract involves the same procedure. You powder the herbs in a blender or coffee mill and then combine them with 8 times (in weight) as much liquid. For home purposes 100-proof vodka provides the ideal extracting medium since it is 50% water and 50% alcohol.

Extracts enable you to move the healing properties of an herb into a long-lasting medium of liquid. Shelf life of extracts is several years as compared to the dry herb in whole leaf or large chunk root form which are only viable for about one year. Dosage is also easier to judge with the liquid in a dropper bottle.

Amber tincture bottles are available from herbalware suppliers (see Where to Buy It).

Let's work through one example to guide you along...

Weigh out 1/2 oz. of Dandelion leaf or root

If you are seriously interested in herbal preparations made at home, you will need a reliable kitchen scale!

Grind the herb to a powder in a coffee mill and place in a suitably large sealable jar. Cover the herb with 4 oz (this is 8 times as much liquid as herb) of 100-proof vodka. Cap and shake well to get the herb saturated throughout the liquid.

Place your jar in a warm spot out of direct light for a period of two weeks.

You will need to shake the jar each day.

At the end of two weeks you will strain the liquid through a coffee filter and bottle in sterile amber dropper bottles.

Label the bottle this way:

Dandelion extract - 1:8 ratio and add the date.

By the way - any cheap 100-proof vodka will do the job. It's not necessary to spend a great deal of money on a known brand.

Any herb which is used in its dry form can be made into an extract in this manner.

There are a few herbs which CANNOT be used dry since they lose their healing properties upon drying. For this reason they are used fresh. (See Fresh Extracts).