How to get rid of parasites with papaya: A Guide

January 14, 2026 •

5 min read

Intestinal parasites are a common global health concern, with estimates suggesting millions are infected, particularly in regions with poor sanitation. For generations, papaya has been a traditional folk remedy for ridding the body of these unwanted organisms, but what does the science say about how to get rid of parasites with papaya?

Quick Summary

Papaya, especially its seeds, has been traditionally used to treat intestinal parasites due to compounds like papain. Clinical studies have shown efficacy against specific parasites like roundworms, particularly when combined with honey, but a medical diagnosis is crucial before treatment.

Key Points

Papaya seeds contain active compounds: The seeds, rich in compounds like benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) and the enzyme papain, are the primary source of the fruit's anti-parasitic properties.
Small studies show promise: Limited human research indicates that a mixture of dried papaya seeds and honey may help clear roundworms, but large-scale trials are needed.
Always consult a healthcare professional: Papaya is not a substitute for prescribed medication. Medical diagnosis and treatment are crucial for confirmed parasitic infections.
Start with caution: Excessive intake of papaya seeds can cause an upset stomach. Introduce them gradually and in moderation to your diet.
Unripe papaya poses risks: Unripe papaya and its latex contain unprocessed papain, which can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and may be harmful during pregnancy.
Support gut health holistically: For a stronger defense, combine papaya with other anti-parasitic foods like garlic and pumpkin seeds, increase fiber, and include probiotics.

The Traditional Wisdom Behind Papaya for Parasites

Papaya, scientifically known as Carica papaya, has long been recognized in traditional medicine for its anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) and anti-amoebic properties. The fruit, its leaves, and particularly its seeds contain bioactive compounds believed to help expel worms from the digestive tract. This long-standing folk remedy is now garnering interest in modern research, validating some of the traditional claims, albeit with important caveats.

The Science Behind Papaya's Antiparasitic Action

So how exactly does papaya work against parasites? The key lies in its natural chemical composition. The most significant compounds are:

Papain and Other Proteolytic Enzymes: The milky white latex found in unripe papaya is rich in enzymes like papain, which helps break down proteins. Some researchers believe these enzymes can help digest the protective outer layers (cuticles) of certain intestinal worms, weakening them and making them easier for the body to expel.
Benzyl Isothiocyanate (BITC): This compound is abundant in papaya seeds and has been identified as a potent anthelmintic agent in phytochemical analysis. Studies have shown BITC to be a primary active ingredient responsible for killing certain parasites.
Carpain: Found in papaya leaves, carpain is an alkaloid that has demonstrated the ability to kill certain parasites and affect the central nervous system, though more research is needed.

Scientific Evidence and Limitations

While small-scale studies have shown promising results, experts caution against relying solely on papaya for parasite treatment without professional medical guidance.

The Nigerian Study (2007): A pilot study involving 60 children with intestinal parasites found that a seven-day course of an elixir made from air-dried papaya seeds and honey significantly cleared the stool of parasites compared to the placebo group that received only honey. The papaya group achieved parasite clearance rates of 71.4% to 100%, depending on the parasite type.
The Kenyan Study (2018): Another trial in school-aged children found that a porridge fortified with dried papaya seeds significantly reduced Ascaris lumbricoides (a type of roundworm) egg count over a two-month period. This study also noted an improved nutritional outcome and a reduction in ringworm infections in the papaya group.
Limitations: Despite these positive findings, larger, more robust clinical trials are still needed to confirm effectiveness and establish standardized dosage, safety, and efficacy against various types of parasites. Many online claims overstate the available scientific evidence.

How to Consume Papaya to Get Rid of Parasites

For those interested in this traditional remedy, the seeds are the most targeted part of the fruit for parasitic infections. Here are some preparation methods:

Papaya Seed and Honey Elixir

Harvest seeds: Scoop out fresh seeds from a ripe papaya. Rinse them well to remove any gelatinous residue.
Dry and grind: Air-dry the seeds for several days, then grind them into a fine powder.
Mix with honey: Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the ground papaya seed powder with a tablespoon of raw honey.
Dosage: Take this mixture on an empty stomach for seven consecutive days, as described in some studies.

Papaya Seed Smoothie

Gather ingredients: Combine ripe papaya flesh, 1-2 teaspoons of fresh or dried papaya seeds, and a liquid base like coconut water.
Blend: Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth. The seeds will give the smoothie a peppery kick.
Optional additions: Add other anti-parasitic foods like a raw garlic clove or pumpkin seeds to the blend for an extra boost.

Comparison of Preparation Methods


Method	Taste Profile	Convenience	Evidence Support	Key Considerations
Seeds with Honey	Strong, peppery taste masked by honey's sweetness.	Requires drying and grinding seeds, but mixture is easy to consume.	Backed by the 2007 Nigerian study for roundworms.	Honey may feed some gut microbes, but is generally safe with seeds.
Seed Powder in Smoothies	Peppery flavor adds a unique element to smoothies.	Easy integration into a daily routine, no extra steps for consumption.	Less specific evidence, but benefits are tied to seed consumption.	Can be more palatable for those sensitive to the seeds' taste.
Eating Seeds Raw/Whole	Very strong, pungent, and peppery taste.	Simplest method, just requires scooping and eating.	Potentially effective, though some believe chewing is key.	High doses can cause digestive distress. Start with a small amount.

Important Considerations and Safety Precautions

While papaya is a natural remedy, it is not without risks and limitations. It is crucial to approach its use with caution:

Consult a doctor: Always seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis before attempting to treat a parasitic infection yourself. Different parasites require different treatments, and relying on home remedies can delay effective medical care.
Monitor side effects: Excessive intake of papaya seeds can cause an upset stomach, nausea, or other digestive distress. Unripe papaya and its latex can also cause severe irritation or allergic reactions in some people, especially those with a latex allergy.
Pregnancy and fertility: Pregnant women should avoid consuming unripe papaya and high doses of papaya seeds, as unprocessed papain could potentially harm the fetus. Some animal studies have also suggested a contraceptive effect from high doses of papaya seeds, which may be a concern for those trying to conceive.
Medication interactions: Papaya can lower blood sugar and may interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin. Always consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take other medications.

Additional Natural Remedies for Gut Health

In addition to papaya, other natural remedies can support gut health and may aid in parasite management. These can be incorporated into your diet to complement a holistic approach:

Garlic: Known for its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, raw garlic contains allicin, which creates a hostile environment for parasites.
Pumpkin Seeds: These contain a compound called cucurbitacin, which can paralyze parasites, making them easier to eliminate.
Coconut Oil: The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil can be effective against harmful organisms.
Fiber-Rich Foods: Increasing your intake of dietary fiber helps to cleanse the digestive tract and promote the removal of waste and any expelled parasites.
Probiotics: Restoring healthy gut flora with probiotics and fermented foods can help the body naturally fight off and prevent parasitic infections.

The Role of Papain in Promoting Digestive Health

Beyond its potential anti-parasitic effects, the enzyme papain in papaya offers broader digestive benefits. It helps break down tough proteins, improving overall digestion and nutrient absorption. This can help with issues like bloating, constipation, and general indigestion. A healthy digestive system is better equipped to manage and prevent infections naturally, making papaya a beneficial addition to a gut-supportive diet.

Conclusion

While some smaller studies suggest that papaya, particularly its seeds, may have beneficial anti-parasitic effects, especially against roundworms, current scientific evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a standalone cure for parasitic infections. The compounds like papain and benzyl isothiocyanate show promise, but larger human trials are necessary. Incorporating papaya seeds and other natural remedies into your diet can support overall gut health and digestion. However, for a confirmed parasitic infection, the most responsible course of action is to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Natural remedies should be viewed as complementary tools, not as a replacement for conventional medical care.

Effectiveness of dried Carica papaya seeds against human intestinal parasitosis: A pilot study.

Frequently Asked Questions

While generally safe in moderation, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid papaya seeds. Pregnant women, those with latex allergies, or those on certain medications should consult a doctor first.

A pilot study used a 7-day protocol with dried papaya seeds and honey. However, there is no standardized duration, and it's best to consult a healthcare provider for any regimen, especially if you have symptoms of an infection.

The seeds contain higher concentrations of the anthelmintic compound benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC). While the fruit, especially unripe papaya, contains digestive enzymes like papain, the seeds are generally considered more potent for targeted anti-parasitic effects.

For ease of consumption and potency, air-drying the seeds and grinding them into a powder to be mixed with honey is a traditional and evidence-supported method. You can also blend them into smoothies.

No, there is no strong medical consensus that papaya seeds can completely cure a parasitic infection. They may help reduce the parasitic load for certain types of worms (like roundworms), but are not a replacement for medically-approved treatments.

Symptoms can include gas, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and general fatigue. Some individuals, particularly children, may also experience malnutrition and anemia. A doctor can provide a definitive diagnosis.

The peppery taste of papaya seeds is often strong. Blending them into a smoothie with other fruits or mixing the ground powder with honey can help mask the flavor. Start with a small amount to get used to the taste.

Unripe papaya contains a high concentration of latex, which can contain enzymes and alkaloids that may be toxic in large amounts or cause irritation, particularly to the esophagus. It should be used with caution and avoided by pregnant women.