Effectiveness of Consumption of Carica Papaya L, as a Natural Remedy to Treat Constipation

Abstract

The problem of this study: how effective does consuming ripe Carica papaya L fruit in overcoming constipation? Carica Papaya L is a fruit that is rich in nutrients and non-nutritive components. Several non-nutritive components contained in Carica Papaya L fruit, namely fiber, carpaine alkaloid compounds, and proteolytic enzymes, are known to overcome functional constipation. These substances are useful for facilitating gastrointestinal function, increasing stool mass, and making stools softer so that they can prevent and treat constipation. The purpose of this study: was to see how effective is consuming ripe Carica papaya L fruit in overcoming constipation. Methods: The research design is a one-group pretest-posttest design. Forty research subjects voluntarily participated in the study. Research subjects were selected by purposive sampling method, individuals who have a history of functional constipation and have not defecated for three days or more. Results: The results showed that one-time consumption of a smoothie made from 200 grams of ripe Carica Papaya L fruit blended with 100 cc of mineral water and given after dinner was 82.5% effective for overcoming constipation. Implications and contributions: The results showed that papaya could be used as natural medicine or an alternative treatment in overcoming the problem of constipation.

Keywords: Carica papaya L, Constipation