The meat tenderizer function is allegedly true, but there is another quality that I tend to think is important. Bed sores are treated with papaya extract. My gut feeling (pun intended) tells me that it has healing properties inside your system.

In Oregon I often bought papaya- for just 69 cents each it was a bargain.

Here in Juneau, Alaska, they are about $2.70 a pound which makes each papaya cost more than $5.00. Unless I am preparing a fruit salad for a party I no longer buy it.