Yes, cooked pawpaw can potentially make you sick, although not for everyone.
Potential Side Effects of Eating Pawpaw
While pawpaw is generally considered safe, some people might experience adverse reactions. These reactions aren't necessarily exclusive to raw or cooked pawpaw but can occur regardless. Based on the provided reference, here's what you should be aware of:
Symptoms You Might Experience:
- Hives: An allergic skin reaction characterized by red, itchy welts.
- Nausea: A feeling of sickness in the stomach with an urge to vomit.
- Vomiting: Expelling the contents of your stomach.
- Headache: Pain in the head.
- Faintness: Feeling weak and about to lose consciousness.
The reference specifically mentions that American pawpaw extract might cause vomiting. The effects of cooked versus raw pawpaw consumption on the severity of these symptoms is not definitively indicated but similar side effects can occur when either is ingested by susceptible individuals.
Why These Reactions Occur:
- These reactions often stem from allergies or sensitivities to compounds within the pawpaw fruit.
- The specific allergens or irritants aren't always identified but are thought to be found within the fruit itself.
What to Do if You Experience Symptoms
If you suspect you're experiencing a reaction to pawpaw, whether cooked or raw, here's what you should consider:
- Stop Consumption: Cease eating the pawpaw immediately.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Note how you feel and if symptoms worsen.
- Seek Medical Advice: Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worrisome. They can provide guidance on managing reactions and identifying potential allergies.
Applying Pawpaw to the Skin
The provided reference also mentions that American pawpaw is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied to the skin short-term. However, this doesn’t negate the potential for some individuals to have a topical reaction.
Summary
| Side Effect | Potential Cause | Action to Take |
|---|---|---|
| Hives | Allergic Reaction | Stop consumption, monitor symptoms, seek medical help |
| Nausea | Sensitivity to compounds | Stop consumption, monitor symptoms, seek medical help |
| Vomiting | Allergic Reaction, Extract | Stop consumption, monitor symptoms, seek medical help |
| Headache | Reaction to compounds | Stop consumption, monitor symptoms, seek medical help |
| Faintness | Reaction to compounds | Stop consumption, monitor symptoms, seek medical help |
While cooked pawpaw is generally safe, it is important to be aware of the potential for adverse reactions. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution.
