Papaya
History of papaya/ pawpaw
The papaya is also refered to as pawpaw in some parts of the world. This fruit is originally from southern Mexico, Central America and South America. Papaya is now grown in many tropical countries.
Consumption of papaya/ pawpaw
A papaya’s flesh is mostly eaten raw but can be cooked as an additional flavour to dishes.
The papaya seeds are also eaten as a spice and young leaves as a vegetable.
In countries like India, papaya pieces are laid on a wound for it to heal faster. It is again used as a contraceptive by Indian women. There is no scientific proof for the belief that this fruit causes miscarriages.
Nutrients in papaya/ pawpaw
Papaya is very rich in Vitamin C. It also contains good amounts of folate, potassium, fibre, vitamin A and beta-carotene. It is because of these nutrients that papaya has cancer fighting properties.
This fruit, together with a
good diet
can prevent
cholesterol problems
. Papaya is therefore good for your heart. Papaya also contains an enzyme called papain which is useful to fight digestion problems. This fruit is highly nutritious with very low
calories
. Be sure to include it in your diet.
Our papaya tip
Placing your papaya fruits with a banana helps ripen them faster.
Back to Food of the Month page

|