Papaya

The papaya is a fast-growing tree-like species which can reach three to ten metres in height. Endemic to Central America, it is grown in almost all tropical regions for its fleshy fruit, the papaya. Unusually, green papaya, including the leaves and sometimes the bark, emits a white latex. Applied topically, this latex is known to have a healing effect on wounds and burns by helping to eliminate dead and damaged tissue, and by stimulating cell renewal.