Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Papaya (Carica papaya) is commonly used to support digestive health, including the relief of constipation in adults. The justification for its use is grounded both in traditional practices and increasingly in scientific evidence. Papaya is high in dietary fiber, which can add bulk to stools and promote regular bowel movements. Additionally, papaya contains the enzyme papain, which aids in protein digestion and may improve overall gut motility.

Several small clinical studies and observational reports have explored the effect of papaya or papaya-based supplements on digestive health. For example, a 2013 study published in Neuro Endocrinology Letters investigated a papaya preparation in adults with chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction, including constipation, and found significant improvement in both constipation and bloating symptoms. The fiber content, along with mild laxative properties attributed to enzymes and phytochemicals in papaya, are thought to contribute to these effects. Furthermore, traditional medicine systems in tropical countries have long recommended papaya as a remedy for digestive complaints, lending additional support to its use.

While evidence is promising, most studies to date are small and not always rigorously controlled. Thus, while there is a reasonable scientific rationale and preliminary clinical data supporting papaya’s role in relieving constipation, more high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this specific indication.

More about papaya
More about Constipation (adults)

Other ingredients used for Constipation (adults)

Other health conditions supported by papaya

Products containing papaya

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