- Ingredient Name:Papain
- Functions:Enzyme
- Ingredient Origin:Plant Origin, Natural Origin
- Labeling Claims:Naturally Derived, Natural, Plant-Based
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme extracted from the raw fruit of the papaya plant. Proteolytic enzymes help break proteins down into smaller protein fragments called peptides and amino acids. This is why papain is a popular ingredient in meat tenderizer. A popular folk remedy to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling. It has also been used to improve digestion and to treat infections, diarrhea, and allergies.