Antifungal Activity from Papaya Seed

This abstract focuses on the antifungal activity of extracts from Carica papaya (papaya) and specifically examines the role of papain, an enzyme found in the fruit. The research investigates whether papain-containing extracts can effectively inhibit the growth of certain fungal pathogens, potentially offering a natural alternative to synthetic antifungal agents. Papaya seeds have been found to exhibit promising antifungal properties, attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds such as benzyl isothiocyanate, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. This review highlights the potential applications of papaya seed extracts as natural antifungals for treating fungal infections and controlling fungal growth in crops. The antifungal activity of papaya seeds is discussed, along with the potential benefits of using natural antifungals over synthetic ones. Future directions for research are also explored, including in-depth studies on mechanisms, clinical trials, and agricultural applications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the antifungal properties of papaya seeds and their potential uses.