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Papaya (or Ayurveda - Papita or Erandkarkati) in Ayurveda is worshipped as an all-purpose superfruit, beneficial to the overall well-being. Opting to consume this tropical delicacy with its sweet orangish flesh and black seeds is full of nutrients and powerful enzymes such as papain, thus, it is a staple solution when it comes to digestion, immunity, and others. Modern day knowledge and ancient literature point to the fact that it balances doshas hence facilitating overall health.

Contrary to western palaenarisi Ayurvedically, ripe papaya is glutamious (Madhura Rasa), cooling (sheeta Virya) with sweet post digestive property (madhura vipaka). It balances Vata and Kapha doshas and mildly exacerbates Pitta when it is in excess- perfect towards individuals who have an inactive digestive system or have surplus mucus. The fruit triggers Agni (digestive fire) which helps in metabolism and absorption of nutrients. Green papaya and its leaves are stronger and bitter and have hot pungency (ushna virya) and are therefore also good on Kapha-Vata imbalances.

Against Ayurvedic advantages, there are:

• Enzyme Superior Digestion Papain enzyme dissolves proteins, constipation, bloating, and indigestion. It is a natural laxative, carminative, which helps in gut health and avoiding IBS-like.
• Immunity & Detox - papaya is rich with vitamin C, beta-carotene and antioxidants, which help get rid of free radicals, enhance immunity and liver functioning. Dengue fever is also treated using leaves to increase the number of platelets.
• Heart and Metabolic Health fiber lowers cholesterol, potassium lowers blood pressure, and it helps the body to control blood sugar- great in the management of diabetes.
• Skin & Anti-Aging — Antioxidants and vitamins are known to make the skin look good, decrease inflammation and wound healing. Place use of topical, used to clear blemishes.
• Other Uses -Seeds serve as wormicides; leaves are anti-inflammatory and anti-malarial; generally, it is nourishing to the body and improves energy levels and reproductive functions.

Most of the claims are supported by scientific evidence: It is demonstrated that the antioxidants of papaya decrease the oxidative stress, benefit the heart, have anticancer potential, enhance digestion, and decrease inflammation. It is low calorie and high fiber which helps in weight control.

Application- Eat Ripe papaya fresh, consume in smoothies or it can be used as post meal digestive. Do not overdo (Pitta-dominant can make him or her acidic). This traditionally warning of ipecac green papaya, should make pregnant women see specialists.

Papaya is not just fruit; is Ayurvedic healthful power: On digestion to complexion, heart to energy. Message it consciously to achieve extended health.