The Common fig is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree native to southwest Asia and the eastern Mediterranean region (from Afghanistan to Greece). It is widely grown for its edible fruit in many parts of the world. The fresh fruit as well as the dried fruit is used in salads, desserts, jams, pies, puddings and confectionaries. Its health benefits are many.
• Figs help in healthy bowel function and prevent constipation.
• The fiber in figs also helps to reduce weight and is recommended for obese people.
• Figs contain Pectin, a soluble fiber which when it goes through the digestive system, flushes out cholesterol and carries them out of body.
• Dried figs contain phenol, Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
• The presence of fiber helps eliminate cancer causing substances.
• Fiber content in figs give protection against breast cancer.
• Fig leaves reduce the amount of insulin needed by diabetic patients who have to take insulin injection. Fig is rich in Potassium which helps to control blood sugar.
• Figs are high in potassium but low in sodium. So, it helps to avoid hypertension.
• Figs are rich in Calcium which is good for the teeth and bones.
• People having high calcium diet may be affected by increased urinary calcium loss. Potassium content in figs helps to avoid that.
• Vision loss in older people is due to macular degeneration. Fruits and figs generally are good for avoiding this condition.
• The high mucilage content in figs helps to heal and protect sore throats.
• A decoction of figs boiled in water taken regularly gives relief in urinary stones and dysuria
• Application of paste of figs heals ulcers caused by burns.
• Regular intake of figs builds body resistance and supplies your natural daily requirement of vitamins.
• Due to the iron-rich content of fig, it is ideal to include it in one’s diet in anemia.
• The burnt ash of the fig fruit is highly basic in nature and can be consumed a tsp before meals to counter hyperacidity.
• The enzyme ficin present in the fig latex is responsible for its anthelmintic activity and can be given with great benefit in worm infestations .
• Figs are quite useful in various respiratory disorders including whooping cough and asthma.
• Fig is also good for fever, earache, boils, abscesses, venereal diseases and is excellent for the liver.
• Figs are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols. These are antioxidants, which prevent the damage caused by free radicals.