Papaya Seed Benefits & Nutrition
If you simply throw away your papaya seeds, you may be missing out on a nutrient-dense addition to your health regimen.
What Are Papaya Seeds?
Papaya seeds are the small, round, black seeds found in the center of the papaya fruit, which bears the scientific name Carica papaya. When you split open a papaya, there may be dozens or even hundreds of these black seeds in the middle, and the majority of people simply throw these seeds away. However, not only are they edible, but they have a huge wealth of nutrients, as well as a unique taste that makes them one of the more palatable fruit seeds.
You can scoop out the seeds and rinse them off, as they are usually covered in a gelatinous casing. Once they are rinsed and dried, they can be eaten as is, providing a slightly spicy, peppery flavor, or they can be ground down to use as a spice, or added to salads, soups, sauces and dressings as a flavorful and nutritious addition.
Papaya Seeds Nutrition
Papaya seeds contain a surprisingly large amount of nutrients, including high levels of fat, protein, and magnesium, as well as dietary fiber, calcium, and phosphorous. Most importantly, however, these seeds are good sources of papain, the particular enzyme in papayas that is so closely linked to digestive health. These seeds also have various alkaloids, proteolytic enzymes, and other active ingredients that provide quite a few benefits to overall health.
Papaya Seed Benefits
The most impressive benefits of papaya seed include their ability to boost kidney health, regulate digestion, treat inflammation and pain related to arthritis, strengthen the immune system, and aid in weight loss, among others.
Prevent Cancer
New research has shown that papaya seeds have immunomodulatory components that can potentially slow, stop or reverse tumor growth for certain types of cancer.
Skin Care
Antioxidants and vitamins present in these seeds can help boost the free radical defenses of your body, reducing wrinkles, and signs of aging.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Often used as a natural treatment for pain and inflammation related to arthritis and other chronic conditions.
Aid in Digestion
Papain is a digestive enzyme that can regulate nutrient uptake, bowel movements and the bacterial environment of your gut.
Boost Immune System
The phenolic compounds and flavonoids found in these seeds will defend your body against foreign pathogens and potential infections.
Detoxify the Body
Studies have shown that these seeds and their enzyme components can help stimulate kidney function and reduce toxicity levels in the body.
