Papaya or pawpaw tree plant (Carica papaya)

The papaya is a large, tree-like plant growing 5 to 10 meters (16 to 33 feet) tall, with a soft, hollow trunk. When cut, the entire plant exudes a milky juice. The trunk is rough and scarred (where leaves and fruit were born). Its large leaves (20-28 inches in diameter) are spirally arranged at the top of the tree. The fruit grows directly from the trunk, among and below the leaves, and is about 5-18 inches long by 4-12 inches in diameter. The fruit is green before ripening. When ripe, it turns yellow or orange or remains greenish with a squash-like appearance.

Where to find Papaya or pawpaw trees

Papaya is found in rain forests and semi-evergreen seasonal forests in tropical regions and in some temperate regions as well. Look for it in moist areas near clearings and former habitations. It is also found in open, sunny places in uninhabited jungle areas.

Edible parts of Papaya or pawpaw trees

The ripe fruit is high in vitamin C. Eat it raw or cook it like squash. Place green fruit in the sun to make it ripen quickly. Cook the young papaya leaves, flowers, and stems carefully, changing the water a couple of times during cooking. The black papaya seeds are edible and can be ground up and used as a pepper substitute.

Papaya fruit is rich in vitamins A, B, and C as well as minerals and dietary fiber. The Papaya skins and seeds contain natural phenols.

Other uses for Papaya or pawpaw trees

The papaya fruit is rich in papain, a common component in meat tenderizers. Use the milky juice of the unripe fruit to tenderize tough meat. Rub the juice on the meat.

Note: Be careful not to get the milky sap from the unripe fruit into your eyes. It will cause intense pain and temporary—sometimes even permanent—blindness.

Fermented papaya flesh can be used to create an ointment that can be used as a treatment for cuts, rashes, burns, and stings. Studies indicate unripe papaya may have a contraceptive effect in both women and men and in large doses, may cause miscarriages in women.

Here are some other uses for papaya or pawpaw trees:

Medicinal purposes: Papaya leaves, seeds, and roots have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as dengue fever, malaria, and digestive issues. In fact, studies have shown that papaya leaves contain enzymes that can help boost platelet count and improve immunity.
Industrial uses: The timber of papaya or pawpaw trees is used to make various products such as paper, plywood, and furniture. Because of their fast growth rate and strength, papaya trees are an ideal source of timber for small-scale industries.
Cosmetic products: Papaya extracts are used in cosmetic products such as soaps, shampoos, and creams due to their skin-lightening and exfoliating properties. Papaya is a natural source of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal.
Culinary uses: Unripe papaya can be used as a meat tenderizer in some cuisines, while the young leaves can be used in salads. Additionally, papaya seeds can be dried and ground into a spicy condiment that is similar to black pepper.
Livestock feed: Papaya or pawpaw leaves, seeds, and fruits can be used as feed for livestock such as pigs and chickens. This can provide a healthy and nutritious alternative to traditional feed sources.