- Papain is an enzyme (a molecule that speeds up a chemical reaction) found in the latex produced by the fruit of the papaya plant (Carica papaya). The release of this enzyme-rich latex may be part of the plant's defense mechanism and aids in cleaning and sealing the damaged areas of the plant.
- In some parts of Africa, papain is used to treat burn wounds, especially in children, and to stimulate healing. In standard Western medical care, papain-containing agents are commonly used to remove dead tissue from burns and many types of wounds and skin ulcers. Traditionally, papain has also been used as digestive aid. Today, papain remains a popular after-meal supplement.
- Allergic sensitivity to papain may cause symptoms ranging from itchiness to abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and excessive sweating. Papain is used as a meat tenderizer and in processing beer, so symptoms may occur after ingestion of foods seemingly unrelated to papain.
← Back to Monographs
ingredients
Papain
Contents
- Bromme D, Nallaseth FS, Turk B. Production and activation of recombinant papain-like cysteine proteases. Methods 2004;32(2):199-206. View Abstract
- De Clercq E. Potential antivirals and antiviral strategies against SARS coronavirus infections. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2006;4(2):291-302. View Abstract
- Glenn J. Managing a traumatic wound in a geriatric patient. Ostomy Wound Manage 2006;52(4):94-98. View Abstract
- Jedeszko C, Sloane BF. Cysteine cathepsins in human cancer. Biol Chem 2004;385(11):1017-1027. View Abstract
- Jose Cazzulo J, Stoka V, Turk V. The major cysteine proteinase of Trypanosoma cruzi: a valid target for chemotherapy of Chagas disease. Curr Pharm Des 2001;7(12):1143-1156. View Abstract
- Leipner J, Iten F, Saller R. Therapy with proteolytic enzymes in rheumatic disorders. BioDrugs 2001;15(12):779-789. View Abstract
- Martin T, Uhder K, Kurek R, et al. Does prophylactic treatment with proteolytic enzymes reduce acute toxicity of adjuvant pelvic irradiation? Results of a double-blind randomized trial. Radiother Oncol 2002;65(1):17-22. View Abstract
- N'Dow J, Robson CN, Matthews JN, et al. Reducing mucus production after urinary reconstruction: a prospective randomized trial. J Urol 2001;165(5):1433-1440. View Abstract
- Pereira AL, Bachion MM. [Wound treatment: scientific production analysis published in the Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem from 1970-2003]. Rev Bras Enferm 2005;58(2):208-213. View Abstract
- Pieper B, Caliri MH. Nontraditional wound care: A review of the evidence for the use of sugar, papaya/papain, and fatty acids. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs 2003;30(4):175-183. View Abstract
- Rosenthal PJ, Sijwali PS, Singh A, et al. Cysteine proteases of malaria parasites: targets for chemotherapy. Curr Pharm Des 2002;8(18):1659-1672. View Abstract
- Steverding D, Caffrey CR, Sajid M. Cysteine proteinase inhibitors as therapy for parasitic diseases: advances in inhibitor design. Mini Rev Med Chem 2006;6(9):1025-1032. View Abstract
- Taylor SL, Hefle SL. Ingredient and labeling issues associated with allergenic foods. Allergy 2001;56 Suppl 67:64-69. View Abstract
- van Kampen V, Merget R, Brüning T. [Occupational allergies to papain]. Pneumologie 2005;59(6):405-410. View Abstract
- Yasuda Y, Kaleta J, Bromme D. The role of cathepsins in osteoporosis and arthritis: rationale for the design of new therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 5-25-2005;57(7):973-993. View Abstract
Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
