Delicious, sweet flavoured fig also known as Anjeer fruit is one of the ancient fruits enjoyed in the human history. Fig is naturally rich in many health benefiting phyto-nutrients, anti-oxidants and vitamins. Dried figs in fact are concentrated source of minerals and vitamins. The fully ripe fig has bell or pear shape with succulent flesh.
Botanically figs belong to the mulberry family (Moraceae); of the genus, Ficus. Scientific name: Ficus carica.
Fig fruit tree is native to temperate climate of Asia Minor or present day Turkey and today is grown as important fruit of commerce in the eastern Mediterranean region, USA, Spain. However, it is also cultivated as a fruit tree in home gardens. During each season it bears several hundred pear shaped fruits twice a year which vary in size and colour depending on the variety.

Interiorly, the fig fruit features numerous club shaped ovaries protruding towards central hollow cavity. In their natural habitat, “caprifigs” are pollinated by a tiny gall wasp (Blastophaga Grosso rum) that enters the flower cluster through a small opening in the apex.

Several cultivars exist; some of popular varieties commonly grown in the USA are Brown Turkey, Conadria, Kadota, and Black mission. However, since the wasp is not present in North America, most of these fruits do not have true seeds and they develop by parthenogenesis (without pollination).

Health benefits

The health benefits of figs or anjeer include its use as a treatment for sexual dysfunction, constipation, indigestion, piles, diabetes, cough, bronchitis, and asthma. It is also used as a quick and healthy way to gain weight back after suffering through an illness.

Prevention of constipation: There are 5 grams of fibre in every three-fig serving. That high concentration of fibre helps promote healthy, regular bowel function and prevents constipation. Fibre works to add bulk and mass to bowel movements, so it not only prevents constipation, but also eliminates diarrhoea and unhealthy or irregular bowel movements.

Weight loss: The fibre in figs also helps to reduce weight and is often recommended for obese people. However, their high calorie count can also result in weight gain, especially when consumed with milk. A few figs are enough to get the recommended amount of nutrients, so don’t overdo it! Remember, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.

Lower cholesterol: Figs contain Pectin, which is a soluble fibre. When fibre moves through the digestive system, it basically mops up excess clumps of cholesterol and carries them to the excretory system to be eliminated from the body. As a soluble fibre, pectin from figs also stimulates healthy bowel movements. Figs can have a laxative effect, as they are one of the most fibre-dense foods available. High amounts of fibre in your diet can benefit your overall health by preventing certain types of abdominal cancer, as well as colon cancer.

Prevention of coronary heart disease: Dried figs contain phenol, Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Furthermore, the leaves of figs have a significant effect on the level of triglycerides in a person’s system. Fig leaves have an inhibitory effect on triglycerides, and makes the overall number of triglycerides drop. Triglycerides are another major factor behind various heart diseases.

Prevention of colon cancer: The presence of fibre helps to stimulate the elimination of free radicals and other cancer causing substances, particularly in the colon, since fibre increases the healthy movement of the bowels.

Protection against post-menopausal breast cancer: Fibre content in figs have been known to protect against breast cancer, and after menopause, the hormonal balance in women can often fluctuate. The body’s systems are so interconnected that hormones affect the immune system, which is turn affect the ability of antioxidants to fight free radicals. Free radicals are prime factors behind the development of cancer, so figs take care of one extra line of defence by providing its wealth of fibre.

Good for diabetic patients: The American Diabetes Association recommends figs as a high fibre treat that helps promote functional control of diabetes. Fig leaves reduce the amount of insulin needed by diabetic patients who have to regularly take insulin injections. Figs are rich in Potassium, which helps to regulate the amount of sugar which is absorbed into the body after meals. Large amounts of potassium can ensure that blood sugar spikes and falls are much less frequent, so figs can help diabetics live a much more normal life.

Prevention of hypertension: People usually take in sodium in the form of salt, but low potassium and high sodium level may lead to hypertension. Figs are high in potassium and low in sodium, so they are a perfect defence against the appearance and effects of hypertension, making figs a relaxing food as well, which can settle the nerves and bring some calmness to your day.

Bronchitis: The natural chemicals in fig leaves make it an ideal component for a tea base. Fig leaf tea has been popularly prescribed for various respiratory conditions like bronchitis, and it is also used as a way to prevent and lessen the symptoms of asthmatic patients.

Venereal Diseases: Figs have been traditionally used in the Indian subcontinent and a few other areas of the world as a calming salve for venereal diseases. Ingestion or topical application both work for relief from sexually transmitted diseases, although further research needs to be done on the exact range of symptoms and diseases which figs positively effect.

Sexual Dysfunction: For centuries, figs have been recommended as a way to correct sexual dysfunction like sterility, endurance, or erectile dysfunction. It has been a major part of mythology and culture, and most of the time, it is referenced as a powerful fertility or sexual supplement. Its actual success as an aphrodisiac is questionable, but the huge amount of valuable vitamins and minerals might result in the sudden boost in energy and stamina that people mistake for a sexual surge.  Soak 2-3 figs in milk overnight and eat them in the morning to enhance your sexual abilities.

Strengthens Bones: Figs are rich in calcium, which is one of the most important components in strengthening bones, and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It is also rich in phosphorus, which encourages bone formation and spurs regrowth if there is any damage or degradation to bones.

Urinary calcium loss: People that maintain a high-sodium diet may be affected by increased urinary calcium loss. The high potassium content in figs helps to avoid that condition and regulates the content of waste in your urine. It minimizes the calcium you lose, while increasing the amount of uric acid and other harmful toxins which you want to get out of your body.

Prevention of macular degeneration: Vision loss in older people is normally due to macular degeneration. Fruits and figs are particularly good at helping you avoid this very common symptom of aging.

Relief for throat pain: The high mucilage content in figs helps to heal and protect sore throats. The soothing nature of figs and their natural juices can relieve pain and stress on the vocal chords.

Figs are quite useful in treating various respiratory disorders like whooping cough and asthma. They are also effective digestive aids, and they are helpful in treating constipation, indigestion, stomach ache, and various other intestinal conditions. Figs are good for fever, earache, boils, abscesses, venereal diseases and is excellent for the liver. Figs have a high level of alkanes, therefore they help to regulate the pH of the body. Figs are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which are antioxidants that prevent the damage caused by free radicals. Figs are known for their soothing and laxative properties, and they are also low in fat and sugar.

Figs are sweet and soft and their paste is often used as a replacement for sugar. Processed figs are used to make pies, pudding, cakes, assorted baked goods, jam, jellies and preserves.

Precaution:  It is possible to have too much of a good thing, and eating too many figs can cause diarrhoea. Furthermore, dried figs are high in sugar and can potentially cause tooth decay. Also, there are those who are allergic to figs, or certain chemical components within them, and the resulting allergic reactions can be mild to severe. As always, before making a major change in your behavioural patterns or lifestyle, speak with your doctor or usual medical professional.