Papaya is known for its multiple medicinal benefits: it decreases the spread of tumors and cancerous cells, balances acidity in the body and breaks down the acidic deposits on bones and nerves which cause degenerative diseases like arteriosclerosis, multiple sclerosis and rheumatic arthritis. It also improves allergic conditions as well as obstruction of hearing and eye sight. The active ingredient in papaya, Papain, is more active in unripe, green papaya, whereas the ripe Papaya is a valuable digestive medicine. Try this traditional Thai recipe for Som Taam, or spicy (green) papaya salad, available daily at Tao Garden Restaurant. In Taoist Five Element Nutrition, Papaya is said to support the Earth Element (purifies the blood, breaks down acidic deposits, aids digestion) and Metal Element (Counteracts Damp, relieves infection (Asthma)).