Paw paw (Carica papaya), particularly its fruit and seeds, has been used in various traditional medicine systems for a range of digestive ailments, including gallstones. In several African, Caribbean, and Asian folk remedies, paw paw is believed to have choleretic properties — that is, it is thought to stimulate bile flow, which is seen as beneficial in preventing or treating gallstones. The enzyme papain, found in paw paw, is also traditionally believed to aid digestion and potentially help in breaking down gallstones, although this is based more on its general digestive effects rather than direct studies on gallstone dissolution.

However, scientific validation for the use of paw paw in treating or dissolving gallstones is very limited. Current biomedical literature lacks robust clinical trials or studies supporting paw paw’s efficacy in gallstone management. Most evidence remains anecdotal or based on ethnobotanical surveys that record its traditional use. Therefore, while paw paw has a history of traditional use for gallbladder and liver health, its application specifically for gallstones is not strongly supported by scientific research, and the evidence rating is low (1).

People interested in using paw paw for gallstones should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals, as self-treatment may delay more effective interventions or mask serious conditions.