Papain is a powerful proteolytic enzyme extracted from the raw fruit of the papaya plant fruit (Carica papaya) also referred to as papaya proteinase that is responsible for breaking down proteins into smaller protein fragments called peptides and amino acids. This characteristic of Papain makes it a popular ingredient in meat tenderizer and digestive aid. Additionally other significant utilities of Papain include treatment of parasitic worms, inflammation of the throat and pharynx, shingles (herpes zoster) symptoms, ongoing diarrhea, hay fever, runny nose, dermatological condition called psoriasis and treatment of tumors.