Herbs & Supplements

Should I take it?

Papain is derived from the sap (also called latex or milk) of unripe fruits from the papaya, a small tree-like plant that grows in tropical areas. The plants, which only live about 10 years, are often grown on plantations. Easily recognized by their straight stems topped with large multi-lobed leaves, papayas bear clusters of large fruits that are yellow-orange in color when ripe. Ripe papaya fruits are eaten raw, dried, made into jam, or processed for juice. Papaya leaves, flowers, and green fruits may be cooked as vegetables. The fibrous bark of the tree has been used for making twine and fabrics. Animal feed made from papaya fruits, fruit skins, or juice may be given to livestock to control intestinal parasites.

Papain is obtained by making shallow cuts in the surfaces of unripe fruits that are still on the trees. The white sap that oozes out is allowed to dry before being collected and refined. The rubbery sap contains several enzymes, primarily papain, that can break down certain proteins. As a group, these chemicals are known as proteolytic enzymes. Commercially, papain is included in meat tenderizers. In the cosmetics industry, it is used as a softener in hand and face creams, a depilatory to remove unwanted hair, and a conditioner in shampoo. Papain or related enzymes from papaya are also included in chewing gum, soaps, toothpastes, and contact lens cleaners.

Dosage and Administration

Today, many prescription and non-prescription medications that contain papain are available:

To replace digestive enzymes, large doses of enzyme combinations must be taken several times a day. These are prescription medications and each has specific directions that must be followed carefully.

Papain is also available without a prescription by itself or, more commonly, in combinations with other enzymes, such as bromelian (which is derived from pineapples). Doses of these over-the-counter (OTC) forms of papain vary greatly depending on the condition being treated and the other ingredients in the product. Individuals who choose to take papain should follow the directions on the package that is purchased.

Summary

Papain is a proteolytic (protein-reducing) enzyme that is included in oral replacement drugs for individuals who do not produce enough digestive enzymes naturally. It is also used for gastrointestinal conditions such as indigestion. Papain may be taken orally to relieve inflammation and to improve healing. Additionally, it is being studied for relief of cancer therapy side effects, diabetes complications, and rheumatoid arthritis. Ointments or sprays containing papain may be applied to the skin to help burns and other injuries heal.

Risks

Due to a small chance of miscarriage or birth defects, pregnant women should take papain only with medical supervision. Individuals allergic to figs or kiwi fruit may also be allergic to papain.

Side Effects

Raw papaya sap may cause sores on skin or mucous membranes that come in contact with it. Allergy symptoms may be caused by taking papain or touching papaya plants.

Interactions

Papain may increase the effects of drugs and herbs that thin the blood. As a result, uncontrolled bleeding may occur.

Last Revised October 17, 2007