Paw Paw (Papaya)

What is paw paw?

Paw paw as a remedy / treatment

How to use paw paw

Carica papaya warnings

References

What is paw paw?

Paw paw, also known as papaya or Carica papaya, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree native to Central and South America. It is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Caribbean. The plant is a fast-growing, soft-wooded perennial that can reach heights of 5-10 meters (16-33 feet). It has a single, hollow trunk with large, palmate leaves and produces pear-shaped fruits that are typically orange when ripe, filled with black seeds.

The fruit, leaves, seeds, and latex (milky sap) of the paw paw tree have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The latex, found in unripe fruit and the plant's stems, contains enzymes like papain, which is widely recognized for its medicinal properties.

Paw paw as a remedy / treatment

The latex of Carica papaya is rich in papain, a proteolytic enzyme that breaks down proteins. This makes it a traditional remedy for skin conditions such as warts, corns, calluses, and certain skin lesions. It has also been used to treat keratosis, burns, and ulcers. Papaya can be used to prevent or retard the formation or progression of cataracts, however I have not heard of anyone using papaya to remove existing cataracts. Papain is believed to dissolve dead skin cells and promote healing, making it effective for topical applications.

Commercial products containing papain, such as ointments and creams, are available for treating skin conditions. However, fresh paw paw latex or fruit pulp is often preferred in traditional remedies due to its natural composition and lack of synthetic additives. Studies have shown that papain-based treatments can reduce inflammation and promote wound healing (1, 2). The fruit and seeds also have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may support skin health and digestion.

A study (3) on papain-based treatments for chronic wounds showed significant improvement in wound cleaning and healing rates. The enzyme's ability to break down necrotic tissue makes it particularly effective for ulcers and burns. For skin lesions like warts, the latex is applied topically to soften and dissolve the affected tissue.

How to use paw paw

To use paw paw latex, make a small incision in the skin of an unripe fruit or the stem of the plant. Collect the milky sap that exudes and apply it directly to the affected area, such as a wart, corn, or keratosis. Alternatively, fresh fruit pulp can be mashed and applied as a poultice for burns or ulcers. Apply the latex or pulp once or twice daily, depending on the condition.

Treatment duration typically ranges from 3 to 10 days, depending on the condition's severity. A general healing timeline may include:
Day 1: Mild redness or tingling around the treated area.
Days 2-4: Softening of the lesion, possible mild irritation.
Days 5-7: Lesion begins to shrink or peel away.
Days 8-10: Healing completes, with the lesion drying up or falling off.

Do not disturb any scabs that form, as this can delay healing or cause scarring. Allow them to heal and fall off naturally.

To make a papaya solution, take seven medium sized paw paw leaves, chop them, and put them in a pot with two litres of water. Simmer without a lid until the volume is reduced by half. It needs to be boiled for at least three hours to extract the healing ingredients. Strain the solution into glass bottles, and refrigerate. Discard this solution if it goes cloudy.

You can use this solution topically on the skin.

Some people also use this solution as a cancer treatment, consuming 50 ml three times per day. Taking this solution internally should be done with caution under the guidance of a health practitioner. Do not use this solution if pregnant as it can cause abortions, and do not take it if trying to become pregnant as it affects fertility.

To make a paw paw salve or ointment, take a green pap paw, wash it if it is not organic, and then blend it, including the skin and the pips. Store in the refrigerator after blending. Discard if it changes its smell.

You can use this solution topically on the skin.

Do not use this salve if pregnant as it can cause abortions, and do not take it if trying to become pregnant as it affects fertility.

Carica papaya warnings

• Test a small amount of latex on your skin first to check for allergic reactions, as some individuals may be sensitive to papain.
• Avoid contact with eyes, as paw paw latex can cause severe irritation or damage.
• Do not apply to open wounds or healthy skin, as it may cause irritation or burning.
• Use a clean tool (e.g., a cotton swab) to apply the latex, not your fingers, to avoid spreading it unintentionally.
• Pregnant women should avoid using paw paw latex, as it may have uterine-stimulating effects.

References

1. Amri E, Mamboya F. Papain, a plant enzyme of biological importance: a review. American Journal of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 2012, 8(2): 99-104. doi:10.3844/ajbbsp.2012.99.104.

2. Starley IF, Mohammed P, Schneider G, Bickler SW. The treatment of paediatric burns using topical papaya. Burns, 1999, 25(7): 636-639. doi:10.1016/S0305-4179(99)00056-2.

3. Gurung S, Skalko-Basnet N. Wound healing properties of Carica papaya latex: In vivo evaluation in mice burn model. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2009, 121(2): 338-341. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2008.10.030.