Pawpaw

Or papaya as it is known in some counties, is plentiful in Trinidad and other Caribbean countries.  We have enjoyed the papya down here.  Recently it has gotten a lot of extra attention for its medicinal use with special focus on easing the pain and discomfort caused by Chikungunya.  A couple of different web postings have been shared on cruising and sailing Facebook pages with regard to this.  The leaves are cut up and steeped to make a tea.  According to the book Fruits Des Tropiques " the whole plant contains a white milky substance from which is extracted raw papaeine used in pharmacology.  Numerous virtues are accorded the pawpaw tree:  anti-inflammatory properties, treatment for cellulite, bruises, digestive problems, liver ailments, worms, rheumatism, diarrhea, and as an aphrodisiac.  During a couple of my painful days with Chikungunya, I would have tried it had there been a pawpaw tree close at hand.  Acquisition is a bit of an issue.  The tree grows very tall with the leaves only at the top.  For now, we are just content eating the lovely fruit itself.  The last two we have gotten are so sweet that they taste a little like candy.

However I am NOT a doctor.  Do not take my advice.  I am just passing along some interesting tidbits and local folklore.