Papain is an enzyme found naturally in papaya fruit but can also be taken as a supplement. It can break down the bonds between amino acids (the building blocks of protein), which may support their absorption.
Papain has become popular as a natural remedy for digestive issues, skin health, and anti-inflammatory properties, though evidence to support each of these benefits is limited.
1. May Support Digestion
Animal studies show that papaya and its extracts, including papain, may reduce symptoms of acid reflux. However, human studies have not shown any significant benefits.
One study in rats suggests that papain and bromelain (an enzyme found in pineapple) may fight gut inflammation. However, more research in humans is necessary.
How to Use It
There isn’t enough evidence to recommend taking papain supplements for digestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms, or other digestive disorders. Nor is there any conclusive evidence on dosing and timing for supplements. However, regularly consuming papaya in your diet may be worth a try.
2. May Boost Skin Health
Papain is combined with other ingredients to treat acute and chronic skin lesions. It has proved helpful in treating wounds like diabetic ulcers. It may also reduce the presence of scars.
Several animal studies have also shown promise for using papain in wound treatment and cell turnover. More research is necessary in humans to understand its benefits.
Despite the lack of clinical evidence for other skin uses, some cosmetic products contain papain and claim to reduce wrinkles or improve acne.
How to Use It
It is not recommended to apply papain topically to treat skin conditions without direction from your healthcare provider. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning against marketing topical medications that include papain due to the risk of anaphylactic reactions. When applied topically, papain can also increase skin inflammation and cause other allergic reactions.
Cosmetic products that include papaya extract or other derivatives of papaya may be safe and potentially offer some benefits. However, if you’re allergic to latex, you may want to avoid products that contain papain.
3. Helps Reduce Inflammation
Promising but limited research suggests that papaya and its extracts have anti-inflammatory properties. Most studies have been in animal models, though a few human trials exist.
One small study showed papain reduced swelling in those undergoing oral surgery. Another proposal is that papaya extract may reduce inflammatory markers in people with Alzheimer’s disease. However, there’s not enough evidence to confirm that papaya or papain helps treat inflammatory diseases.
How to Use It
Include papaya in your diet because the fruit may offer benefits beyond a single enzyme or extract. Though some evidence points to the possible benefits of using the extracts in supplements, more research is necessary to understand whether they are beneficial and, if so, at what dose.
4. May Bolster the Immune System
Papaya and its extracts, including papain, may support the immune system and help fight against certain viruses, including HIV, COVID, and Zika.
Researchers have also explored its use in vaccines such as the COVID vaccine, which is promising. However, studies have been small, and data in humans is limited.
How to Use It
There isn’t sufficient evidence to support taking papain supplements to improve your immune system. However, papaya, besides papain, is a good source of vitamin C and lycopene—two nutrients that may aid immune health and may be a good addition to your diet.
5. May Have Antioxidant Effects
Animal and small human trials have shown papain’s potential as an antioxidant to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. However, more research is necessary to understand its potential uses.
How to Use It
Papaya contains many antioxidants, including vitamin C, lycopene, and quercetin. Regularly consuming papaya may offer antioxidant benefits beyond just the papain extract.
5. May Relieve Pain
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, papain may relieve pain by reducing swelling or inflammation at the site of an injury or with conditions like bursitis and fibromyalgia.
More research is necessary to understand if papain is a reliable pain reliever, what conditions and type of pain it’s most helpful for, and if it’s a better option than traditional anti-inflammatory medications.
How to Use It
Discuss potential uses with your healthcare provider before attempting to use papain for pain relief.
Side Effects and Risks
Even though it comes from a natural source, papain, whether applied topically or consumed orally, is not risk-free.
- Possible allergic reactions: Papain may cause anaphylactic reactions, rash, and low blood pressure.
- Precautions: Reports suggest that those with a latex allergy may also be allergic to papaya and papain.
- Interactions: Papain may interact with warfarin, a blood thinner. Consult with your healthcare provider before using papain.
- Side effects: High doses of papain may cause stomach or throat irritation, low blood pressure, or rapid heart rate. If you experience any side effects, stop using papain immediately and contact your healthcare provider.
Consuming papaya is safe for most people unless you are allergic to the fruit. Before using any new products containing papain, such as topical medications or oral supplements, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure their safety.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements the way it regulates prescription medications. As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label. When choosing a supplement, look for products independently tested or certified by organizations such as NSF, U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), or ConsumerLab.com. For personalized guidance, consult your healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Summary
Papain, an enzyme found in papaya, is often promoted for its potential health benefits, which range from digestive support to boosting skin health and offering anti-inflammatory and immune benefits. Though early research—primarily in animals and small human studies—suggests promise, more robust human trials are necessary to confirm its effectiveness.
Papain supplements are widely available, but limited evidence supports their use for specific health conditions. Additionally, topical papain has been linked to serious allergic reactions, leading to FDA warnings.
As with any supplement, there are potential risks, including allergic reactions and drug interactions. Speak with your healthcare provider before using papain, especially if you have allergies or take medications.
