Evidence supporting the use of: Papain
For the health condition: Injuries

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Synopsis

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

Papain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from the papaya plant (Carica papaya) and has been traditionally used in various cultures for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Scientifically, papain has been studied for its potential to support injury recovery, especially in the context of soft tissue injuries and wound care. Papain works by breaking down proteins, which can help in debriding necrotic tissue in wounds, thus promoting the healing process. Several clinical studies and reviews have explored the topical use of papain-based enzymatic preparations for wound debridement, noting that it can assist in removing dead tissue and facilitating the formation of healthy granulation tissue.

However, the evidence supporting its use for injury-related inflammation, pain, or general tissue repair when taken orally is limited and mixed. While some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest oral papain may reduce inflammation and swelling, larger, well-controlled human trials are lacking. Topical applications, especially in combination with urea (papain-urea ointments), are more established in clinical wound care, but their use is mainly restricted to chronic, non-healing wounds rather than acute injuries like sprains or muscle strains. Adverse reactions, including allergic responses, have also been reported, leading to regulatory scrutiny in some countries. Overall, papain's use for injuries is supported more robustly for topical wound debridement than for general injury recovery, and the scientific evidence for broader use is currently modest (rated 2/5).

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hedychium spicatum
chaff flower
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