APAYAS are known for their sweet taste and vibrant colour. They have numerous health benefits and have been around for centuries, even during the times of the indigenous people where the Mayans would worship papaya trees, calling them the “Tree of Life”.

Here are some of its many benefits:

The Skin

* Mashed papaya can be used on cracked and sore heels.

* Iy is helpful in removing dead skin cells and helps in exfoliating the skin in a gentle and natural way.

* Papaya is a great skin-firming and anti-ageing mask. It also helps with blemishes, dark spots and tones the skin.

* It helps in hydrating the skin due to its low sodium quality, therefore there is little water retention.

* Papaya can also be used to treat ringworms as well. Just rub a slice on the patches often, until they have disappeared.

The Hair

* Whether eaten or applied, papaya nourishes the scalp and due to its rich nutrients, it cures and prevents baldness.

* Papaya boosts hair growth and strength.

* It helps in the removal and controlling of dandruff from the scalp.

The Heart

* Papaya is an excellent medicine for hypertension. The rich amount of potassium helps in keeping the blood pressure in check. It also protects the body against heart diseases.

The Eyes and the Immune System

* Papayas help to boost the Immune System. The presence of beta-carotene in papaya is required for the proper functioning and boosting of the system. Papayas also help in improving eyesight, with some believing that consuming three or more servings per day can keep your eyesight normal and improve and lower vision loss.

Cancer and Respiratory Disorders

* Papayas also help in preventing cancer. Its fibre is able to bind to cancer-causing toxins in the colon, therefore keeping them from harming healthy colon cells. Papayas contain latex, which is useful in respiratory disorders such as coughing, bronchitis and breathlessness.

It is not safe to eat too much of a good thing and so it is recommended that you eat at least one papaya per day.

Happy eating!

— Sicourney Jackson