Papaya Leaf, Cut & Sifted (Carica papaya) – Dried Herb, Organic

Papaya trees, also called papaw or pawpaw, is a small tropical tree with a straight stem, no branches and large palmate leaves. The flower is long and bell shaped with filamentous anthers. Trees either have female flowers or hermaphroditic flowers, which contain both male and female organs. Flowers are pollinated by beetles and flies. Papaya trees produce a succulent fruit that is pear-shaped with a bright golden-yellow skin and the leaves are steamed as a vegetable or used in medicine. The shiny gray or black seeds have a peppery taste and are edible but are often discarded. The Papaya tree is native to Mexico and Central America but today it is cultivated throughout the tropical world and into the warmest parts of the subtropics. Papaya is in the plant family Caricaceae.

Papaya leaves contain high amounts of vitamins A, C, E, K and B; and minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium magnesium and iron. In traditional Ayurvedic literature Papaya leaves were used for asthma, fever, dressing wounds (fresh leaves), antibacterial activity, urinary complaints and to promote digestion. Papaya Leaf contains fibre which supports a healthy digestive system, and a unique compound called papain which has been known for its ability to break down large proteins into easier-to-digest proteins and amino acids.

Properties:

The taste of Papaya Leaf is fresh, green and very bitter and the energetics are cooling and drying. Papaya Leaf has an affinity to the digestive system, skin, immune system, pancreas, liver, musculoskeletal system and the uterus. For a tea to support joint health combine Papaya Leaf with Meadowsweet, Birch Leaf and Willow Bark. For a digestive tea combine Papaya Leaf with Catnip, Ginger or Fennel.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Papaya Leaf to one cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Use as a herbal rinse on the skin or scalp.

Cautions & contraindications:

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.