Papaya is colorful and eye-pleasing as well as a great treat to the taste buds. Add to that a load of health benefits, and what you have is a near-perfect combination of taste and goodness. The fruit, both in its raw and ripe form, the seeds, flowers, and leaves are all packed with useful nutrients and are attributed with a variety of benefits.

Benefits of Papaya

Prevention of cardiovascular disease

• Papaya is rich in antioxidants such as carotenes, flavonoids, and vitamin C, as well as vitamin B (folate and pantothenic acid), all of which contribute to a healthy and clean circulatory system.
• Papaya is also a good source of fiber and minerals such as magnesium and potassium, calcium, phosphorous, manganese, and a number of phytochemicals, and carotenoids, nutrients shown to improve cardiovascular health.

Builds immunity

Papaya is a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for building immunity.

Improves skin and hair health and skin complexion

The enzyme papain helps in breaking dead cells and promotes the renewal of cells. The use of papaya as a facial mask reduces premature aging and wrinkles.

Protection against macular degeneration

The anti-oxidant called zeaxanthin creates a protective shield against the eye, preventing the harmful effects of UV rays.

Aids in weight loss

Papaya is rich in fiber and has few calories, so if you are aiming to lose weight then it is a must on your menu. The fiber will keep you feeling full longer and as it has as few as 43 calories per serving of 100 grams, you can happily eat the fruit without restrictions.

Improvement of respiratory problems

Due to the presence of beta-carotene, the risk of asthma may be lowered.

Better Digestion

The fiber in the fruit helps in better digestion and intestinal motility. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent in soothing intestinal inflammation. Raw papaya has a laxative in the form of milk which is useful in treating constipation.

Detoxifying agent

Papaya detoxifies the body. Consuming it as part of a fruit diet for three days will detoxify the body and help the body renew its strength and boost its energy levels.

Improve oral health

Papaya seeds and leaves in their powdered form give relief from toothache and cure bleeding gums.