Papain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes derived from the juice of the unripe fruit of the tropical plant Carica papaya, commonly known as papaya. Papain is a protein-cleaving enzyme derived from papaya and a few other plants. It is rich source of minerals and vitamins A, C and E. It has a mild, soothing effect on the stomach and aids in protein digestion. It is used as a digestive aid and has putative anti-inflammatory activity. In Chinese Traditional Medicine, it is believed that Papain can resist cancer, tumor, lymph white blood cell, bacteria, parasite, tubercle bacillus, etc. It can also diminish inflammation, build gall bladder, relive pain, and help digestion. Moreover, it has remarkable effect on gynecology disease, glaucoma, and osseous hyperplasia, wound and blood type identification, and insect bites as well.
Papain is commonly included in prescription combinations of digestive enzymes to replace what individuals with cystic fibrosis or pancreas conditions cannot produce naturally. Because it improves digestion in general, Papain has also been used orally to treat less serious digestion disorders such as bloating and chronic indigestion. It helps to dissolve and digest protein, thus easing stomach ailments and indigestion. It, not only digests protein, but also extends its activity to digesting carbohydrate. It also breaks down wheat gluten, which may be helpful for those suffering from Celiac disease. Those who have difficulty digesting starchy foods, such as breads, cereals and potatoes, might find great relief in including Papaya in their diets. Papaya helps to settle a nervous and upset stomach and the queasy feelings often associated with travel and motion sickness. It has also been helpful in relieving morning sickness. Papaya is said to stimulate the bowels in times of constipation and is also believed to be useful in treating inflammatory bowel disorders. The Papain in Papaya is thought to relieve acute prostate inflammation and may be very helpful in cases of benign prostatic hypertrophy.
References:
Herbal Extra Plus. http://www.herbalextractsplus.com/papaya-fruit.cfm
NutraSanus. http://www.nutrasanus.com/papain.html
http://www.papain.cn/ecp.htm
http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/PrintablePages/herbMonograph/0,11475,552451,00.html
