Papaya

If you can't get through a day without popping an antacid (or two or three), this is the herb for you. Papaya (Carica papaya) contains a substance called "papain", which is chemically similar to "pepsin", an enzyme that helps digest protein in the body. It is a safe and natural digestive aid. It's easy enough to buy an over-the-counter alternative, but it is certainly not any better. In fact, in a lot of ways, it is much worse. If you take too many antacids, you run the risk of the "rebound effect," that is, your body will respond by producing even more acid, which will cause even more gastrointestinal problems. Papaya juice or tablets, however, can be taken freely without any fear of rebounding. The fruit is also delicious and very popular in Hawaii.

Papaya provides us with many benefits: it aids in the breakdown and metabolism of protein, exhibits anti-ulcer action, and helps relieve indigestion.

Papaya leaf contains the powerful proteolytic enzymes "papain" and "chymopapain", which digest proteins, small peptides, amides, and esters. Their activity extends to carbohydrate and fat. They are more effective than naturally occurring proteases like "pepsin" and "trypsin". Since stomach ailments are the direct result of indigestion, Papaya may help prevent and remedy these by increasing digestive processes. The digestive properties of papain are well established.

Recently, a Taiwanese research team found that animals pretreated with Papaya were significantly more resistant to stress-induced ulcers than untreated animals. The herb's tendencies to coagulate blood and to reduce acid secretion could account for these effects.

To relieve symptoms, take 1 tablet up to 3 times a day, or take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of juice as needed. Another excellent form is dried Papaya slices.

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