Papaya contains papain, a proteolytic enzyme derived from latex, which breaks down proteins into the individual amino acids they are composed of, and can supplement those functions of the digestive system that for different reasons have decreased their activity. It acts not only by facilitating the digestion of proteins, but also by enhancing the activity of proteolytic enzymes secreted in the stomach and pancreas.

The passage of poorly hydrolyzed proteins into the intestine can lead to their fermentation with air production and swelling, heaviness and digestive difficulties, as well as nutritional deficiencies due to decreased assimilation of protein substances. Undigested proteins also promote irritation of the intestinal mucosa, mucus formation and alteration of normal intestinal flora. The beneficial action of papain is also expressed at the intestinal level by removing mucus deposits present in the intestine without exerting a harmful action against the mucosa. This purifying intestinal action allows greater efficiency in the absorption of nutrients and also allows a rebalancing of the intestinal flora.