Papaya (Carica papaya) aka:lechoza, mamão, penpe, papol, fruta bomba, and pawpaw (though not to be confused with the american pawpaw) is a fibrous orange fruit with a green to yellow leather-like skin, and a center full of fibers and little black seeds
Health Benefits of Papaya:
- Increased Protection from Bacterial and Viral Infections
- Increased Immune Function
- Reduced Cancer Risk
- Protection Against Heart Disease
- Slowing Aging
- DNA Repair and Protection
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Alzheimer's Protection
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Stroke Prevention Papaya contains papain which is a pain killer and known to aid in digestion. Papaya is often used to treat stomach ache.
Climate and origin: Papayas originated in Central and South America but have spread to most any place with a tropical climate.
Taste: A papaya's taste and texture will vary widely based on when it was picked and how ripe it is when you eat it. Properly ripened, a papaya will be very sweet and almost mushy. Most people discard papaya seeds, though dried seeds have been used as a substitute for black pepper.
Miscellaneous information: Due to papain, papaya has long been used as a meat tenderizer in South America. The papain is also made into a gel like paste and used to treat cuts or skin irritation. Papayas are used in Asia as a contraceptive and in South America they are renowned for being an aphrodisiac.
