Use: Sprinkle on salads, soups, avocado toast, or eggs. Start with a small pinch—the flavor is strong!
2. Added to Smoothies
Add ½–1 tsp fresh seeds to your favorite green or fruit smoothie.
The bitterness is masked by sweet fruits like mango or banana.
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3. Papaya Seed “Tea”
Crush 1 tsp dried seeds, steep in hot water for 5–10 minutes, strain, and sip.
Mildly bitter; can be mixed with ginger or mint.
4. Pickled or Fermented
Add whole fresh seeds to homemade pickles or ferments for a subtle peppery kick.
📊 Recommended Intake
Start low: ¼–½ teaspoon daily.
Maximum: 1 teaspoon per day for most adults.
Listen to your body: Reduce or stop if you experience digestive discomfort.
🔬 The Science in Context
While promising, human studies on papaya seeds for liver health are limited. Most evidence comes from:
Traditional medicine systems (Ayurveda, Caribbean folk medicine)
Test-tube and animal studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
Anecdotal reports of improved digestion
They are a supportive food, not a medicine.
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✅ Bottom Line: Should You Try Them?
If you’re curious and have no contraindications, papaya seeds can be a flavorful, nutrient-dense addition to a balanced diet. Think of them as a functional spice—one that may offer mild digestive and antioxidant benefits while adding a peppery twist to meals.
Remember:
No replacement for medical treatment.
Start small.
Focus on overall liver health: limit alcohol, eat a colorful diet, stay hydrated, and avoid processed foods.
When in doubt, talk to your healthcare provider—especially if you have liver concerns.
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