Making the Most of Papaya

Jennifer IserlohPapayas are large, luscious tropical fruits that I prefer to buy whole. After I make my smoothies and a fresh papaya cooler (that can also be spiked with rum for an impromptu party cocktail), I still find that there are plenty leftovers.

My friend Chad shares the leftovers with his cat, who adores papaya. He swears it's the reason for kitty's incredibly shiny coat. Since I don't have a cat and hate the idea of waste, I created a papaya facial that I can use when my budget for beauty products runs low.

Papaya makes an excellent facial, because it smells lovely, is naturally high in vitamin C, A, E -- an antioxidant-rich choice for the body inside and out.

Papaya contains a compound called papain, which helps digestion because it breaks down proteins while working as an anti-inflammatory, both excellent for digestive health.

Just one cup of papaya has 300 percent of your daily needs for vitamin C and is a good source of fiber. I think of papaya as a preventive nosh, great for heart health, a healthy colon and strong immune system.

Papaya Face Scrub

1 cup fresh papaya, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup raw honey
1/4 cup whole almonds

Blend all the ingredients in a blender or mini-chopper. Dot the facial over your nose and cheeks, shoulders and elbows. Allow to set 10-15 and wash away with a gentle facial cleanser. Store refrigerated, up to 4 days in an air-tight container.