Papaya is known for its sweet and succulent flesh. However, many tend to leave out the seeds of the fruit, believing them to be useless. On the contrary, the seeds of the papaya fruit are very healthy and offer myriad health benefits for the body. It is erroneous to consider these non-edible, for they can be added to the regular diet in small quantities. Here are some of the more important health benefits of these seeds.

Treats Viral Infections    Papaya seeds can protect the body from a range of bacterial and viral infections. Many studies say that the seeds of the papaya fruit contain potent anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that can be helpful in viral illnesses. In many countries like Costa Rica, papaya seeds are also considered as an excellent natural remedy for life threatening viral infections like Dengue.

Promotes Digestive Health  The flesh of the papaya fruit is known to cure several digestive disorders. The same goes for the seeds of the fruit as well. The seeds contain high levels of digestive enzymes that help stimulate the production of good bacteria in the gut. This, facilitates proper digestion of the consumed food, thus treating, reducing and controlling several digestive and gastrointestinal issues.

Treats Renal Diseases   Papaya seeds can effectively cure a number of diseases related to the kidneys. They are in fact, one of the best known natural cures for kidney diseases caused by body poisoning. Adding papaya seeds to the diet on a regular basis can also protect one from life threatening renal diseases and total kidney failure.

Detoxifies Liver    Papaya seeds contribute significantly to a toxin free liver. These seeds help detoxify the liver and also aid in healing a damaged liver. Studies have in fact established that eating papaya seeds regularly can help in the quick and effective treatment of liver cirrhosis and other potential life threatening diseases associated with the liver.

Treats Inflammation   Papaya seeds are known to contain anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, they are considered as very effective cures for illnesses that cause inflammation, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and so on. Eating papaya seeds on a regular basis can also reduce the side effects of inflammation, including redness and pain in the concerned area.

Treats Cancer    Papaya seeds can also prevent the growth of cancerous cells in the body. These seeds contain immune-modulatory compounds that can slow down the growth of cancerous cells and tumors. Hence, papaya seeds are considered as very effective natural cures for blood cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer, etc.