Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Paw paw (Carica papaya), also known as papaya, has been used in various traditional medicine systems for a range of ailments, including chest pain. In traditional African and some Caribbean medicine, different parts of the paw paw plant—such as leaves, seeds, and fruit—have been used to treat symptoms that may overlap with chest pain, such as coughs, asthma, or general respiratory discomfort. The rationale in folk medicine often revolves around the anti-inflammatory and soothing properties attributed to paw paw, particularly its latex and enzyme content (like papain), which are thought to help alleviate internal discomforts.

However, there is little to no scientific evidence specifically validating the use of paw paw for chest pain, especially acute or chronic chest pain of cardiac origin. Most clinical studies on paw paw focus on its digestive benefits, antioxidant properties, or potential as an adjunct in wound healing. Its use for chest pain remains anecdotal, supported more by cultural practice and traditional beliefs than by robust scientific trials. Therefore, while paw paw is indeed used traditionally for a variety of symptoms that may include chest discomfort, this use should not be considered a substitute for evidence-based medical care, especially in the context of potentially serious causes of chest pain such as heart disease.

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