Melon tree

The melon tree is a plant genus in the melon tree family (Caricaceae) that grows into small trees or shrubs. The yellowish flowers are five-petaled. The plant is native to South America and Central America, but is also cultivated in the African and Asian tropics.
Carica papaya L. is the parent plant of Folia Caricae papayae, the melon tree leaves. Folia Caricae papayae(negative monograph of Commission E due to the risk of sensitization of the extract) is used for digestive complaints as a result of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. However, it is recommended to take purified papain (protease) (50 mg p.o. with each meal). Furthermore, an anti-oedematous (papain 230mg several times a day) and anti-inflammatory effect is propagated. The data on this is similar to that for bromelain (seepineapple below).

Carica papaya extract (INCI) the fruit of the tree that is used in cosmetic products.

1. Bekhit AA et al (2014) Exogenous proteases for meat tenderization. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 54:1012-1031.
2. Modi GM et al (2009) Irritant contact dermatitis from plants. Dermatitis 20:63-78.