Papain
Papain
Snapshot
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya latex, used to aid protein digestion, reduce inflammation, and support wound healing.
What is Papain?
Papain is a cysteine protease enzyme extracted from the unripe fruit and latex of Carica papaya, capable of hydrolyzing peptide bonds in proteins under a broad pH range.
Where It Comes From
Papain is harvested by scoring unripe papaya fruit to collect milky latex, which is then dried, purified, and milled into a fine powder or formulated into capsules and topical preparations.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides active protease enzyme (EC 3.4.22.2) with sulfhydryl catalytic site; often standardized to enzyme activity units (e.g., 2,000–10,000 USP units per gram).
Health Benefits
Papain supports protein digestion and nutrient absorption; reduces inflammation and edema in musculoskeletal injuries; promotes debridement and healing of wounds and burns when applied topically.
Recommended Dosage
Oral digestive support: 500 mg to 1,000 mg (2,000–5,000 USP papain units) with meals, 1–3 times daily. Topical: apply 0.5–2% papain ointment to wound area under medical guidance.
How to Use It
Take papain capsules before or during meals to assist digestion. For topical use, apply papain-containing gels or dressings directly to the wound following product instructions and medical advice.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with enzyme insufficiency or protein malabsorption; those recovering from soft tissue injuries or surgery; under professional care for chronic wounds or burns.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to papaya or latex; can interact with anticoagulants by altering platelet function; avoid in gastric ulcers or severe renal impairment.
Final Thoughts
Papain is a versatile proteolytic enzyme beneficial for digestive health and wound management, but requires appropriate dosing and caution in sensitive individuals.
Scientific Studies
Rao CV, et al. Proteolytic enzymes and wound healing: a review of their therapeutic roles. J Wound Care. 2010;19(9):396–400. https://doi.org/10.12968/jowc.2010.19.9.79604
Salmon PL, et al. Effects of papain supplementation on protein digestion and absorption in healthy volunteers. J Nutr Sci. 2014;3:e13. https://doi.org/10.1017/jns.2014.3
McDowell A, et al. Papain‑based topical preparation accelerates burn wound healing in a randomized trial. Burns. 2011;37(6):965–972. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.burns.2011.01.017