Introduction
Papaya fruit is famous for its taste, nutrition and health benefits. However, only some people are aware of the immensely beneficial Papaya seeds. They are loaded with medicinal and nutritional properties and are a boon for the human body, yet dumped in the waste bin. These tiny round seeds are edible and are advantageous for our health if consumed in a limited quantity. They assist in weight management, relieve menstrual pain, have anti-cancer properties, and boost cardiovascular health.
Papaya seeds
Papaya seeds are black and have a shiny, wet and slimy cover outside. If you take out the covering, you can find the rough black seeds. They are bitter and peppery in taste. You can consume papaya seeds by drying and grinding.
Nutrition Value
Papaya seeds are a rich source of necessary nutrients. They are a significant source of crude protein, fatty acids, lipids, carbohydrates, fibres, calcium-phosphorus and some toxins.
- Nutrients Amount (100 g)
- Calcium 46.76 mg
- Magnesium 10.40 mg
- Vitamin C 11.73 mg
- Phosphorous 241.50 mg
- Carbohydrates 43.61 %
- Protein 2.63
- Beta - Carotene 65.64 IU
- Riboflavin 0.05 mg
- Thiamine 0.05 mg
- Niacin 0.26 mg
10 Health Benefits of Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds effectively treat viral infections such as dengue and fever. They are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-amoebic, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-ulcer, anti-parasitic, and wound healing agents. Its water extract is not entirely toxic and is even helpful for the protection against oxidative stress.
1. Digestion
Papaya seeds possess an alkaloid called carpaine, which is effective against parasitic worms. It has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for intestinal parasites. Papaya seeds are also a wealthy source of fibre. They can help regulate your bowel movements and remove toxins from your body, maintaining a healthy gut and constipation. Increasing fibre intake may enhance various other aspects of digestive health, too.
2. Antioxidant
Papaya seeds are sources of flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins and saponins. They are potent antioxidants that secure the body from damage by free radicals, protecting us from different diseases. Antioxidants can block oxidative damage to your cells and protect kidney health
3. Weight Loss
Papaya seeds are a good source of fibre and fewer calories, supporting healthy weight loss. It can prevent your body from absorbing fat
4. Cholesterol
The fibre content in papaya seeds reduces cholesterol levels in your body. Plus, oleic acid and other monounsaturated fatty acids in papaya seeds help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. Hence, eating papaya seeds may help manage healthy cholesterol levels.
5. Anti-Cancer
The polyphenols in the papaya seeds are potent antioxidants. They are known for preventing your body from various types of cancers. Flavonoids are rich in water extracted from papaya seeds and act as an anti-cancer agent. Papaya is an impressive cancer fighter that is highly effective against hormones related to cancer as well as other cancers.
6. Nephroprotective
Papaya seeds are Nephrotective and guarantee the smooth working of our kidneys. Moderate consumption of papaya seeds may help smooth the functioning of your kidneys.
7. Cardiovascular Health
Antioxidants like phenolic compounds in papaya seeds may help reduce oxidative stress and lessen the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These seeds may also help lower cholesterol levels and manage healthy blood pressure.
8. Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids and polyphenols in papaya seeds can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Chronic inflammation is associated with various diseases, namely gout, arthritis, and heart disease, so consumption of papaya seeds may help manage these conditions.
9. Skin Health
Consuming papaya seeds can positively affect skin and hair health because of their anti-ageing properties. Papaya seeds are a source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that manage the elasticity of our skin and thus prevent the development of fine lines and wrinkles. You can even use papaya seed extract or oil topically to nourish the skin and hair; it may enhance the overall health of the skin and promote hair growth.
10. Antibacterial
Papaya seeds have antibacterial properties that protect your body from bacteria like Shigella dysenteriae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, etc.
Papaya Seed Recipes
Papaya Seed Smoothie
Adding papaya seeds to your smoothie is an excellent way to increase the nutritional value of your drink. Blend half a papaya, half a cup of frozen berries, almond milk, one banana, and one tablespoon of honey until it becomes smooth. Add one tablespoon of papaya seeds and pulse shortly to combine.
Papaya Seed Salad
Consuming papaya seed salad is known for its burst of flavour and nutrition. Toss together greens of your choice, diced avocado, some sliced papaya, and sliced red onion. Drizzle with a papaya seed dressing and top with a sprinkle of papaya seeds.
Papaya Seed Tea
This unconventional tea is an excellent way to enjoy the health benefits of papaya seeds. Add one tablespoon of papaya seeds to a cup of boiling water and let soak for five to ten minutes. Strain out the seeds and add honey (if needed). Stir well and enjoy.
Conclusion
Papaya seeds are by-products of fruit and are generally discarded. Still, they are edible and have numerous health benefits, particularly for digestive health, immune system support, and anti-inflammatory properties. It works for our well-being whenever taken in a restricted amount.
