The many health advantages of papaya fruit are well recognized by the general public. We may get a lot of nutrition from this healthy fruit, which is accessible all year long and is a great source of food for our entire health and well-being. The papaya's skin-covered meat contains a number of seeds, much like the flesh of many other fruits. Again, as with many other fruits, the kernels are removed before the luscious flesh is consumed. Have you ever wondered why we presume that these seeds are inedible and just throw them away when they are not? Of course, if we unintentionally bite into them, they would taste bitter, but does this indicate that they should not be consumed? Is it possible that they are? Some specialists believe that papaya seeds may be consumed, but only in little amounts and under strict supervision.
Moreover, Dr. Anju Sood, a nutritionist based in Bengaluru, points out that "not all seeds are dangerous, but certain seeds are quite bitter, and as a result, they cause some form of gastro-intestinal disruption." Dr. Anju Sood is a nutritionist located in Bengaluru. In the opinion of many other nutritionists, papaya seeds are indeed edible and may be consumed in order to benefit from their many health-promoting features.
Exactly what are the health benefits of consuming papaya seeds aren't quite clear.
1. It is a fighter against free radicals
Papaya seeds are rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which help to protect us against common infections such as colds and coughs, as well as from a variety of chronic illnesses.
2. It aids in the management of weight
The seeds of the fruit are fibrous in nature, and as a result, they improve digestion while also assisting in the prevention of obesity. The fiber also helps to keep blood pressure under control, which is beneficial for heart health.
3. It helps to keep the gut healthy
According to some research, papaya seeds contain proteolytic enzymes that destroy bacteria and parasites that live in the intestines, hence maintaining the health of the stomach and the gastrointestinal tract.
4. It helps to alleviate menstrual pain
In addition, it is said that taking papaya seeds during menstruation might assist to alleviate muscular cramps and soreness.
5. It regulates the level of cholesterol in the blood
Additionally, papaya seeds have a high concentration of beneficial monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid (3), which has been shown to lower high levels of harmful cholesterol (LDL).
How Should Papaya Seeds Be Consumed?
How can we get ourselves to consume it, given how bitter it is to begin with? You don't have to stress out your taste senses, at least not in the traditional sense. Grind the papaya seeds and use the powdered form to flavor sweet smoothies, drinks, desserts, and even beverages, according to your taste. Sugar, honey, or jaggery will be able to overcome the bitterness of the seeds because of their sweetness.
Now that you are aware of the possible advantages of papaya seeds, here are three suggestions for consuming them:
1. Consume raw foods
One method of consuming papaya seeds is to just swallow them whole.
This will need the acquisition of a papaya fruit (or two). You may choose from either the Hawaiian or the Mexican papaya varieties that are accessible in the United States.
Remove the seeds from the fruit once it has been picked and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator if you are not going to use them right away.
People who are new to the practice might start with as little as 2 seeds. Keep them from being swallowed whole like a vitamin pill - they are most effective when chewed (we know!) or smashed up in some manner.
After approximately three days with no adverse effects, you may increase the dose by two more times to reach roughly a quarter teaspoon. Then increase it to half a teaspoonful, and if you are not a sensitive person, increase it to a teaspoonful.
If you are just getting started with papaya seed treatment or if you use them on a less regular basis, it is preferable to keep them in the freezer rather than the refrigerator (in an airtight container).
As a general rule, papaya seeds should be kept in the refrigerator if they are going to be used within 3-4 days; otherwise, they should be frozen.
This may be accomplished by separating your seeds into those that will be used within the next few days and those that will be stored in the freezer, where they can last for many months without losing their effectiveness.
2. Papaya Seed Powder (also known as papain)
It is also possible to get pulverized papaya seeds from a specialised producer, such as Herbal Goodness, and consume them in this manner.
What's great about papaya seed powder is that, in addition to being more cost-effective than fresh papaya fruit, which can be prohibitively expensive in some areas, it can be used in a variety of applications – in desserts, smoothies, fruit juice to make detox cleanse drink, yogurt, lemon juice, and even plain water for those who find plain water to be a little boring.
Because of its peppery flavor, papaya seed powder makes an excellent salad (or morning cereal) dressing, as well as a seasoning for any recipe that calls for pepper. It is preferable to use it as a garnish on your dish rather than cooking with the cuisine for the best results.
3. Papaya Seed Extract (also known as papain)
In addition, papaya seeds may be consumed in the form of an extract. The advantage of papaya seed extract, like with papaya seed powder, is that it is more concentrated than fresh papaya seeds when compared to the seeds themselves. This implies that it is more effective, particularly against infections.
It also has the additional advantage of being less difficult to swallow than other medications. In contrast to raw papaya seeds or papaya seed powder, you may consume papaya seed extract on an empty stomach with a glass of water, rather than on an empty stomach with food.
Once again, the finest papaya seed extract should be obtained from a trustworthy dealer that only sells non-GMO, organic items to ensure that they are of the highest quality. Herbal Goodness is the source of this information.
Conclusion
Papaya seeds have a slew of possible negative side effects, particularly when ingested in large quantities.
Be aware of the potential negative effects of papaya seed treatment before beginning it, especially if you have stomach ulcers or other digestive difficulties.
The consumption of papaya seeds should be avoided by pregnant women and those using blood-thinning drugs, so it's better to speak with your doctor before getting started.
