Papain

What is papain?

Papain is a group of enzymes that can digest proteins; it naturally occurs in papaya ^[1].

Papain Uses

Papain is used as a meat tenderizer and clarifying agent in beer ^[1].

Papain Supplements

Papain supplements, extracted from the latex of papaya tree, are available as nonprescription (over-the-counter) supplements.

Papain Health Benefits

There is INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE ^[1] about the effectiveness of papain supplements in the prevention or treatment of arthritis, cancer, complications of radiation therapy, digestion problems, diarrhea, hay fever, intestinal worms, leaky gut syndrome, muscle soreness after exercise, osteoporosis, psoriasis, sore throat (pharyngitis), runny nose, shingles (Herpes zoster), sores, vascular disease and venous ulcers, or in promoting wound healing ^[2].

Papain Safety: Toxicity, Side Effects

Papain supplements are POSSIBLY SAFE when taken y mouth in appropriate doses but POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken in large doses ^[1].

Side effects of papain supplements or tenderizers may include gastric ulcers, esophageal perforation, and hypernatremia ^[1]. Individuals who are allergic to fig and kiwi might also be allergic to papain.

During Pregnancy

Papain is POSSIBLY UNSAFE during pregnancy, since it might cause birth defects ^[1].
Not enough is known about the safety of papain supplements during breastfeeding, so breastfeeding women should avoid them ^[1].

Who else may need to avoid papain?

Bleeding disorders. Papain might increase the risk of bleeding during surgery or in individuals with bleeding disorders ^[1].