Loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, this bountiful fruit tree was known as the sacred Tree of Life by the ancient Mayan Civilization. And no wonder. When cut in half it resembles a large vagina -so moist, so bright, so filled with life giving properties. Ever heard that a food which resembles a body part assists in the maintenance of that body part? Well in this case, if consumed regularly, the papaya helps to increase the female libido. Of course! Papayas are rich in antioxidants like vitamins A and C. Papain -the papaya's powerful enzyme- is what makes this fruit a highly sought after commodity. It's extracted and put into capsules for use as a digestive aid for proteins, fats, and starches. When ripe, papayas contain more beta-carotine than carrots, and more vitamin C than kiwi fruit. As mentioned in the avocado post carotene is converted into vitamin A in our body, which does wonders for our largest organ -the skin! Papayas are abundant in bioflavonoids, which benefit the immune system and help prevent allergic reactions. An excellent source of electrolytes, papaya minerals include potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Having trouble hitting the potty regularly? The fiber from both fresh and dried papaya helps eliminate constipation.
What about the SEEDS?!!!
Yes they are edible and contain high concentrations of papain. Papaya seeds resemble large peppercorns and have a mild peppery taste. When dried in the sun, a food dehydrator, or by spreading them evenly on a try, you can use these packaged nutrients as a spice even. Is it a wonder why you find papaya elements in shampoos and skin treatments. Women in the Java have used unripe papaya juice on their skin to try to get rid of wrinkles and old skin cells. That's right! This gorgeous fruit can help maintain youth. Papaya helps the body to produce more arginine, an essential amino acid that activates human growth hormone. HGH is necessary for cell rejuvenation and for rebuilding cells in the liver, muscles, and bones.
In addition to nutrition, papayas carry beautification applications as well as medicinal applications. The native people of South and Central American use the papaya as medicine as well. Pieces of papaya laid on wounds and surgical incisions are reported to speed up their healing. They also believe it's a remedy for weak liver (detox organ) and to effectively rid the body of worms and parasites -for those of you who enjoy raw meats and sea food.
SIMPLE APPLICATION:
The skin of the ripe papaya is not edible but can be refrigerated and later used as a face wash.
Here's Chocolate saMosa's beauty application with a papaya. And YES, you can eat this one!
The Papaya Lava
Pureed papaya lava on a sliced papaya sitting on a bed of julienne pipian squash with a fresh blueberry and papaya red wine reduction
