5 Least Known Health Benefits Of Papaya Seeds

Are you a fan of papaya, a tropical and delicious fruit? If so, don’t be so quick to toss those seeds. They are totally edible and have a surprising amount of medicinal value – even more than the flesh! It’s a matter of knowing how to eat them.

However, know that the seeds taste nothing like the fruit. Papaya seeds have a strong, spicy flavor, much like a cross between mustard seeds and black peppercorns. If you can handle the taste, it’s worth looking into these five miraculous benefits of papaya seeds.

# Treats Parasitic Infections

Papaya seeds have anti-helminthic properties, meaning that they’re capable of destroying parasitic worms. This can be a lifesaver when you’re faced with a nasty infection.

For example, in a 2007 study in the Journal of Medicinal Food, scientists put papaya seeds to the test. A group of 60 Nigerian children with intestinal parasites received either air dried papaya seeds plus honey, or honey alone. After seven days, stool samples were taken.

# Cures Bacterial Infections

Papaya seeds also have anti-bacterial properties. Specifically, research has shown benefits against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, and Salmonella typhi. The next time you get hit with food poisoning, keep this natural remedy in mind.

# Improves Digestive Health

A healthy body depends on a healthy gut. How else can the body absorb all those nutrients? With papaya seeds, digestion can get a little pick-me-up. They’re jam-packed with digestive enzymes just like the fruit.

It’s also a great reason to use papaya seeds with digestive-enhancing teas like ginger or turmeric.

# Fights Oxidative Stress

As a fruit, papaya is known for providing a healthy dose of antioxidants. But according to a 2015 study, the papaya seeds offer even more antioxidants. This means they can find and destroy free radicals, the dangerous molecules that cause cellular damage and oxidative stress. In turn, you’ll get extra protection against chronic disease.

# Protects Kidney Heath

The anti-oxidative power of papaya seeds is particularly helpful for the kidneys. According to a 2015 study, antioxidants protect the kidneys by controlling inflammation and cell death. This is a game changer for people with drug-induced kidney damage or diabetes.