Yes, it’s not ‘paradise’ this time. In early 2023, I contracted an intestinal parasite identified as ‘blastocystis’. It lived up to its name – but an eventual breakthrough came from a most unlikely source …

It had me fooled in the beginning: I thought it was simply a stomach bug. I became suspicious. I wasn’t unwell, and was constantly ravenous. But what went in also went out – and in 2 months I had lost 5 kgs. 

My gastro-enterologist reassured me that my particular bug was “common and harmless”, that it would clear up on its own, and that he wouldn’t prescribe antibiotics. I was to see him again only if symptoms became “severe”.

I really wanted this bug gone. Five kilos was a lot to lose for me and I was worried. 

I looked online for herbal supplements; most of them specified a course of 2–3 bottles to effectively “kill” parasites – but reviews of the herbs’ side effects (e.g. vomiting and diarrhoea) put me off.  

Hope came from an article on, of all things, papaya seeds.

Not only are these seeds potent antioxidants, rich in fibre and monounsaturated fats, but their potent enzyme papain aids digestion by breaking down protein. Papaya seeds can also help fight infections and promote kidney health – and in some cases, may actually kill intestinal parasites. 

I have been eating papayas all of my life … but the seeds??

Well, they went into our home compost bin along with papaya skins. This is the very thing earthworm producers caution against – because papaya seeds are known to slow down earthworm reproduction and make them temporarily infertile. Worms love papaya skins and the gel around the seeds, but always leave the seeds alone. Now we know why!!

So I began chewing a teaspoon of the seeds with the fruit and had them fresh (they can be bitter; you may prefer to swallow them with a full glass of water as I do sometimes). You can keep the seeds in the fridge (preferably in an airtight glass container) for up to 3 days, if you’re not eating a fresh papaya every day. 

Unbelievably, I began to put on weight again and in 3 months regained the 5kg I’d lost. I don’t think my parasite has gone; the seeds more likely stopped them from reproducing. 

My morning regime now includes a teaspoon of those precious seeds. Next time you slice open a papaya, be sure to enjoy both the delicious flesh and the powerful seeds nestled inside – to take full advantage of the range of health benefits this remarkable fruit has to offer.  

Note: Pregnant women should steer clear of papaya seeds due to potential risks of inducing contractions. Individuals with allergies to latex or papaya should also avoid them. People with gastrointestinal issues or those taking certain medications should consult a doctor before consuming the seeds.

I must say a thank you to our earthworms at home: I underestimated your intelligence and apologise!

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