Raw Papaya has an enzyme called papain, which is known to have a very strong digestive property. It can even digest raw muscles. That is why in earlier days, when there were no pressure cookers, a few pieces of raw papaya were added to meat while cooking it in a pot. It is because of this enzyme raw papaya is restricted for pregnant ladies as it can digest the embryo in initial stage and cause miscarriage. However, ripe papaya is beneficial for a pregnant lady and she should have it in her diet. But to be on safer side, one can avoid it in first trimester and start from second trimester after the placenta is fully formed. Moreover, pregnant ladies should remove the seeds and clean the inner part nicely before consuming papaya. Even in ripe papayas, the seeds and inner part still have some papain.
Raw papaya has lots of health benefits. Cooked raw papaya like a vegetable curry is very useful and should be taken quite frequently. It is very good for digestive issues and problems like acidity. Cooked raw papaya is very good for toddlers and young children.