Abstract

Carica papaya L. is a fruit plant belonging to genus Carica found in tropic and subtropics regions. It is the third most widely grown fruit worldwide, due to its flexible requirements, usually grown in autumn to spring. Papaya is one of the important pioneers in the succession of different forests in America and even in forest gaps. Different techniques have led to the successful production of cultivars and hybrids that have economical and nutritional gains. However, wild papaya has somehow held its original genome and original traits therefore is able to naturally pollinate with cultivars making successful evolutionary progress. Researchers are still studying its genomics and proteomics to develop breeds of medical and agro-economic benefits. Low in calories but it is enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, alkaloids, fatty acids, lipids, enzymes like papain, chemopapain etc. Papayas’ qualities and benefits are unmatchable. This review provides information regarding types, health benefits of papaya along with its nutritional, medicinal and pharmacological properties.

Keywords:Carica papaya; Nutraceutical; Antioxidants; Anti-dengue; Anti-malarial; Medicinal aspects