American papaw, or pawpaw is a small deciduous tree native to the eastern regions of North America, Canada, and Australia. Often confused with papaya fruit (although they are the same species of Carica) paw paw is a fruit from the Asimina triloba tree that produces oblong yellowish green to brown fruit that appears like its distant cousin papaya. Despite being significantly the same, both fruits are from very different botanical backgrounds. Cherished for its sweet, creamy white pulp, Paw Paw is also called American custard apple. In this article, we will explore the health and skin benefits of Paw Paw fruit and delve into its nutritional contents.
Member of the Annonaceae family, unlike papaya, is extremely sweet when ripe, pawpaw has a more mellow taste, often compared to banana. A papaya has red flesh inside while the flesh of Paw Paw is golden and custard-like and it is larger. Nevertheless, both are currently being used as food additives in several cosmetics and herbal supplements.
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Not only does the fruit tantalize the taste buds, but Paw Paw is also very nutritious and laden with all essential nutrients. High in vitamin C, magnesium, iron, copper, and manganese, it is a good source of potassium and several essential amino acids besides containing significant amounts of riboflavin, niacin, calcium, and phosphorus.
In homeopathy, the use of Paw Paw bark, leaf, and seeds is done to make medicine. American pawpaw can treat treating fever, vomiting, pain, and swelling of the mouth and throat. Commonly also used in cooking, as fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts, it is a staple of Australian delicacies. Besides offering numerous health benefits, the fruit has many wonders when it comes to skin benefits.
Health Benefits Of Paw Paw
Aids Digestion
One of the significant health benefits of this fruit is its extraordinary digestive properties, making it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy digestion. It can help break down proteins and support the digestive system. Consuming paw paw fruit regularly can prevent constipation and ease symptoms of indigestion.
Fights Diseases
Paw Paw fruit is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C. A single serving of paw paw fruit provides more than the recommended daily intake of this vitamin which boosts the immune system, promotes collagen production, and helps fight against diseases.
Prevents Cardiovascular Disorders
Paw Paw fruit is an excellent source of dietary fiber. A diet rich in fiber aids in weight management promotes a healthy heart and reduces the risk of developing various chronic heart disorders.
Combats Inflammation
Paw Paw contains compounds such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants that reduce inflammation in the body, preventing chronic inflammation-related diseases like arthritis and joint issues.
Skin Benefits Of Paw Paw
Paw Paw fruit offers several benefits for the skin. It is abundant in antioxidants that fight against free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preventing premature aging. Regular consumption of paw paw fruit can help in maintaining youthful and vibrant skin. Topical supplication or eating this fruit regularly will make your skin look fresh and rejuvenated.
Also Read: Raspberry: 5 Astonishing Benefits Of This Juicy Drupe For Skin And Hair - Infographics
From aiding digestion to promoting healthy skin and providing essential nutrients, this tropical delight is a fantastic addition to any healthy lifestyle. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a paw paw fruit and enjoy the numerous benefits it has to offer! Here is a simple DIY skin recipe you must try:
Paw Paw Face Mask
Ingredients
Paw Paw extracts or a fresh cube of the Paw Paw fruit
1 squeezed lime
1 tbsp honey
A pinch of turmeric
1 tsp of sandalwood powder
1 tsp milk
Mix all the ingredients and apply them evenly on your face. Leave for twenty minutes and wash with warm water.
How Does It Work?
Applying this fruit mash will help improve skin texture and reduce acne breakouts by killing the dead skin cells. Vitamin C will promote the production of collagen, enhance elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
A Word Of Caution
Paw Paw fruits contain a compound called annonacin that may have side effects on some people upon consumption. Hence it is always recommended to consult a health care provider before adding its extracts in supplemental form. The fruit does not have any allergies, but it is always better to do a patch test before topical application.
Disclaimer:
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.
References:
Some phytochemical and functional properties of Pawpaw (Carica papaya L.) leaf protein concentrates obtained from three locations in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Enenya, I.G., Agbonghae, O.W., Nwokoro, Edo State, Nigeria. Vegetos 35, 1063–1068 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42535-022-00386-3
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42535-022-00386-3#citeas
Nutritional Potentials and Uses of Pawpaw (Carica papaya): A Review
European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety
DOI:10.9734/ejnfs/2020/v12i330209
Authors: A. A. Daagema, P. N. Orafa, Francis Igbua
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340976122_Nutritional_Potentials_and_Uses_of_Pawpaw_Carica_papaya_A_Review
Disclaimer:
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.
