Papaya is an incredible fruit that offers a wide range of therapeutic and nutritional benefits. The fruit that can be consumed both in raw and ripen forms belongs to the family of Carica papaya and is native to America, Mexica and Central America.

Known as Papita in Hindi, Papalli in Tamil, Boppasa in Telugu this sweet tasting fruit with pungent smell grows on a small, slender tree. Interestingly, Papaya trees are dioecious, which means they have male and female reproductive structures on separate plants. It in fact grows in male, female and hermaphrodite. While male produce pollen and never bear fruit, female trees produce inedible fruits. The hermaphrodite trees can self-pollinate and can bear edible fruits.

Papaya both in raw and ripen varieties offers a wide range of nutrition. It is a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, folate, magnesium, copper, fiber. It contains 88% of water, while fat and protein are present in negligible amounts.

How To Consume Papaya?

Papaya is extensively used in Indian cuisine. While the raw papaya can be made into curries, parathas, ripen fruits can be eaten in the form of juice, salads, smoothies. The extract of Papaya leaf juice is a tried and tested medicine to increase platelet count for the patients suffering from dengue. Traditional medicine recommends burning Papaya leaves and inhaling the smoke to get instant relief from asthma. Also Read: Dengue Treatment: How To Make Papaya Leaf Juice At Home

How To Make Papaya Juice:

Ingredients:

1 cup, fresh Papaya cubes

1 tsp honey

¼ glass chilled water

Method:

In a mixer, blend Papaya pieces and honey together.

Add chilled water.

Pour it in to a glass and serve

Nutrition:

Papaya is loaded with all essential vitamins including Vitamin A, Vitamin C and minerals like folate, magnesium, copper etc. Honey serves as an instant energizer and is a powerhouse of bioactive plant compounds and antioxidants. Studies reveal that regular consumption of Papaya juice offers a wide range of health benefits.

Benefits Of Papaya Juice:

Weight Loss:

If you are planning to lose weight, it’s time to include Papaya juice in your daily diet regimen. Rich in fibre, this juice keeps you satiated for longer hours and eases bowel movements.

Bolsters Immunity:

A glass full of Papaya juice is all you need to up your immunity levels. Thanks to its high Vitamin C content, it serves 200% per cent of daily Vitamin C requirement, thus improving immunity and resistance towards various infectious diseases.

Improves Vision:

Include raw or ripe Papaya in your daily diet for clear and brighter vision. Powerhouse of Vitamin A, Papaya juice is recommended for children with vision issues. It also slows down the progression of age-related macular degeneration in the older adults. Also Read: How To Sneak Raw Papaya Into Your Family’s Diet

Eases Menstrual Cramps:

While Papaya is known for its abortifacient properties, which means it increases uterine contractions and leads to abortion, it also helps in easing menstrual pain. Papain, an enzyme found in the fruit regulates menstrual flow and provides instant relief from pain.

Prevents Stress:

Studies reveal that deficiency of Vitamin C is one of the main reasons behind intense stress and mood swings. Drinking Papaya juice daily helps manage stress better, regulate mood swings, restore hormonal balance.

Fights Cancer:

Being rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and phytonutrients, drinking Papaya juice aids in fighting free radical damage. Regular intake of Papaya juice prevents, breast, colon and prostate cancers.

Clears Dead Skin Cells:

The Vitamin A in Papaya juice clears dead skin cells and provides instant hydration and glow. The presence of potassium in the fruit serves as a moisturizer and removes dullness. Apply a thin layer of papaya juice mixed with honey on face and wash it after 15 minutes, to see the results.

Removes Suntan:

Various enzymes present in Papaya soothes sun burn and removes tan. Apply a mix of Papaya juice with little bit of fresh lemon juice to kill bacteria and for instant glow.

Acts As Conditioner:

Papaya juice is a natural conditioner, thanks to its enzymes. Mix it with equal amounts of olive oil to maintain the levels of keratin in the hair and for a dandruff free scalp.

Conclusion:

Though Papaya can be consumed in various forms, drinking it as a juice is one of the preferred options as it tastes better. Mixing honey with the juice ensures all nutrients. Papaya is a gift of Mother Nature and it a rich source of various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Include it in your daily diet for better vision, improved immunity and great health. However, stay away from Papaya if you are pregnant as it may induce uterine contractions and can lead to abortion.