Pawpaw seeds also known as papaya seeds are used all around the world. However, people are little knowledgeable about the nutritional value, uses, and how to grow pawpaw from its seeds.
Well, to have more information and valuable content about pawpaw seeds, their uses, and much more, read this blog till the end!
READ MORE: 4 Reasons Why Papaya Is Good For Piles
What are Pawpaw Seeds?
Pawpaw seeds are also known as papaya seeds. These are small, dark brown, smooth textured seeds found inside the papaya fruit. Papaya fruit is a tropical fruit with various health benefits. Papaya is also used to make papaya juice which is of great benefit.
Many people discard pawpaw seeds without giving a second thought. But the fact is that these seeds hold various potential health benefits.
Consult a video or in-clinic consultation with a professional nutritionist in Pakistan via Marham.
Nutritional Value of Pawpaw Seeds
Before getting into the pawpaw seeds, let’s have a look at the nutritional value of pawpaw seeds.
- 100 grams of dried pawpaw seeds have approximately 558 calories of energy.
- They are an excellent source of plant-based proteins.
- They are enriched with healthy fats such as monounsaturated (Oleic acid) and polyunsaturated fats.
- Papaya seeds have vitamins and minerals including magnesium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, etc.
- They have flavonoids and polyphenols that are strong and beneficial antioxidants.
- Last but not least, these seeds are an excellent source of dietary fiber.
PawPaw Seeds Uses
Pawpaw seeds have many uses and can be consumed in various ways. Some of the ways of consuming pawpaw seeds are as follows:
1. Propagation
One of the main uses of pawpaw seeds is to grow new pawpaw trees. Pawpaw seeds can be collected from ripe fruits and then cultivated to produce new trees.
This is a great opportunity for enthusiasts who are interested in growing pawpaws and gardeners.
READ MORE: Papaya Health Benefits
2. Spice Blend
Pawpaw seeds are also ground and then used in spice blends to make unique seasonings. The spice blends can be used in sweet or savory dishes to give a nutty flavor and enhance the flavor of the recipes.
3. Edible Seed Paste
Pawpaw seeds are not generally consumed as it is. Therefore, some people process them into edible seed paste.
To make seed paste, the papaya seeds are first cleaned and dried and then ground into a fine powder. This paste is then used in multiple culinary applications which adds a distinctive flavor to the dishes.
READ MORE: Papaya for Periods: Can Papaya induce Early Periods?
4. Pawpaw Seed Butter
Seed butters are made from different seeds such as sunflower or almond. In the same way, pawpaw seeds can be processed into a flavorful butter spread. The pawpaw seed butter can be enjoyed with crackers, toast, sauces, or dressings.
5. Cooking and Baking
Seeds of pawpaw can be ground to make pawpaw seed flour. This pawpaw seed flour can be used as a substitute for traditional flour in baking. The seed flour can add a nutty flavor to the recipes.
Moreover, you can use the same pawpaw seed flour in cooking foods. This can add a distinctive touch to your meals.
How to Grow Pawpaw from Seed?
If you are thinking of growing pawpaw from seed, then you are at the right place. We will tell you how to plant pawpaw seeds to grow pawpaw from seed.
READ MORE: Papaya Leaf Juice Benefits for Immunity Booster
For that, you should follow the below-mentioned steps:
1. Seeds Collection and Care
To grow pawpaw fruit seeds, you have to collect seeds cut the papaya lengthwise, and collect the seeds. You will see a membrane surrounding every seed that attaches its base.
For seed care, peel the membrane because an intact membrane can cause mold growth in the storage stage. The mold does not harm the pawpaw seeds but can increase your work. Therefore, use a knife to separate the membrane on the seeds, and pop them out.
2. Seed Stratification
After that, papaya seeds need a step called seed stratification. Stratification is a process of pre-treating seeds to stimulate the natural condition that triggers pawpaw seed germination.
Stratify the seeds for 80-120 days. For seed stratification, store the seeds in a sealed Ziplock bag with a damp paper towel in the refrigerator from Oct to Feb. You can also store seeds in a moist medium such as moss or peat sant.
Make sure that the seeds remain moist. They should not be left to dry out before being germinated or stored.
Pawpaw seeds that are frozen may germinate. However, freezing can majorly reduce the amount of viable seed.
3. Planting
After the stratification is complete in February, check the seeds for mold. If the seeds have mold, then rinse them.
Plant the seeds in well-draining soil and go for a location with adequate sunlight and partial shade. Pawpaw trees preferably grow in acidic to neutral soil.
The seed will start to germinate around 16°C ( 60.8°F ) after approximately 3 weeks.
As these seeds have an unpredictable nature of germination, it means the 3 weeks can stretch to 3 months.
4. Watering and Care
Keep the soil moist specifically during the early stages of the tree.
As the seeds begin to grow, they will develop a tap root. You have to give the tap root plenty of room to avoid its growth into a J-root. It also causes some issues like stunted growth or sudden tree loss later on.
When the tap root grows, the plant becomes drought-tolerant.
5. Patience and Pruning
You have sprouted pawpaw which is growing happily in a milk carton or tree pot. Now you have to find a forever location for your tree.
Place them in a place that is suitable for their growth to live permanently. You should place them in a location with slightly rich acidic soil with good drainage. Also, look for a place where few other plants are also competing for resources.
Pawpaw trees take several years to mature before producing fruit. Therefore, stay patient and provide pruning to promote a robust structure.
How Much PawPaw Seeds Should I Eat Per Day?
Pawpaw seeds are highly nutritious and have many health benefits. However, they should not be consumed in high amounts. Consuming pawpaw seeds in large quantities can also have side effects because it has certain compounds that if consumed in large amounts can be toxic.
They should be consumed in moderation.
One should eat 1 teaspoon of papaya seeds every day.
Final Words
Papaya (pawpaw) is used all around the world; however, its seeds which are known as pawpaw seeds are overlooked. But these pawpaw seeds are full of nutrition and can be used for multiple purposes.
Moreover, you can also grow your own pawpaw tree by using pawpaw seeds after germinating them in a year.
Although papaya seeds are good for health, they shouldn’t be used in large quantities. This is because it has some compounds that if consumed in large quantities can be toxic.
Hence, one should eat 1 teaspoon of pawpaw seeds per day.
If you want to learn more about pawpaw seeds’ benefits and uses and how and when to eat them, then you can consult the best nutritionist in Pakistan via Marham.pk.
You can also book a video consultation or in-clinic appointment with any doctor in Pakistan by calling us at 03111222398 or by downloading our application.
To download Marham’s application, click here:
| Android | IOS |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is papaya good for male fertility?
Papaya is considered good for male fertility as it helps in boosting male fertility. It can increase sperm count, accelerate sperm movement, and stimulate fertility. Therefore, males should eat pawpaw seeds or papaya but in moderation, or else it can slow down sperm movement.
2. Is papaya good for the liver and kidneys?
Both ripened and raw papaya have enzymes that are useful for both kidney and liver disease.