Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Paw paw (Carica papaya), particularly its leaves, latex, and unripe fruit, has a long history of traditional use in African, Caribbean, and Asian folk medicine for treating skin conditions like boils, ulcers, and wounds. In these traditions, paw paw’s latex or mashed leaves are applied topically to the affected area. The rationale is based on the plant’s content of proteolytic enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which are believed to help in breaking down necrotic tissue and promoting drainage of pus, thus facilitating healing of boils. Some ethnobotanical surveys document its consistent use in communities as a home remedy.

However, scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of paw paw for treating boils is limited and largely anecdotal. A few laboratory studies have demonstrated that papain has mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and some wound-healing activity in animal models, but there are no controlled clinical trials specifically evaluating paw paw preparations for boils in humans. Most references to its use are found in ethnomedicinal literature rather than pharmacological studies. Thus, while the use of paw paw for boils is well-established in traditional medicine, robust scientific validation is lacking, and evidence strength remains low.

More about paw paw
More about Boils

Other ingredients used for Boils

Other health conditions supported by paw paw

Products containing paw paw

Nature's Sunshine Para-Cleanse
Nature's Sunshine Paw Paw