Figs: benefits and harm to the body

One of the oldest fruit trees mentioned in history is, without a doubt, figs. The first garment of the first people on earth was precisely the leaves of a fig tree. In addition, some put forward a version of the fact that it was the fig tree of knowledge.

In the ancient world, figs were quite popular. At one time, in the southern part of Europe, fig fruit acted as a symbol of fertility. The Romans used tree leaves as napkins. According to legend, it was under the fig tree that the she-wolf fed the future founders of Rome.

What is fig and where does it grow

The fig tree has a height of about 9–10 m. The tree has a grayish-brown bark and curved branches with large foliage. On the outside, the foliage is dark in color, the color below is lighter. The fruits have a delicate skin, the flesh is red, the fruit itself is quite sweet.

The plant is dioecious, since inflorescences grow on different trees. The flowers are located in the axils of the leaves and have a rather nondescript appearance. They are pollinated with the help of wasps, which live inside the flowers and transfer pollen to neighboring trees.

Fig is an unpretentious plant, so it can grow in conditions unsuitable for this. Before planting trees, the land can be cultivated at all. The only factor that can interfere with growth is overly moist soil. Fig tree is not afraid of insect pests. Reproduction occurs through seeds, cuttings and roots. Fig bears fruit 2-3 years after planting, for 7 years it is already possible to harvest. The tree has a lifespan of about 100 years (in some cases, the plant can grow up to 300 years). It is worth noting that the tree is tropical, but it is not very afraid of frost. Colds may not be tolerated by pollinating insects that winter in trees.

In large quantities, fig trees grow in India and Australia. They are also common on the African continent, in Oceania, South America, in the Caribbean and Bermuda. In addition, trees can be found on the Black Sea coast.

Kinds

There are several main varieties of figs:

1. Crimean black - the fruits weigh about 80 g, almost black, very sweet.
2. Dalmatian - fruits are large (about 180 g), pear-shaped, peel color is green, flesh is red.
3. Early gray - fruits reach a weight of 40 g, color - light brown, berries can be purple.
4. Randino - olive-colored fruits, weight - about 100 g.
5. Abkhazian purple - late variety, by weight the fruit reaches 80 g.
6. Kadota - fruits with green skin, pink flesh, weight - about 70 g.
7. Brunswick is an early variety, the fruits have a light greenish tint and purple sides, weight - about 200 g.

Composition and calorie content

Calories - 54 kcal.

• Proteins - 0.7 g.
• Fats - 0.2 g.
• Carbohydrates - 12 g.
• Fiber - 2.5 g.

The chemical composition of the product includes trace elements - copper, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, as well as vitamins A, B.

Useful properties of figs

General benefit

1. Relieves constipation. Figs are very useful for the gastrointestinal tract, as it helps to fight constipation. It contains substances involved in digestion. Soluble fiber is an excellent aid to the body, since it helps moisturize hardened feces, which prevents constipation, and can also relieve this ailment if it is present.
2. Lowers cholesterol. Figs contain substances that help lower cholesterol in the body. Pectin is a soluble fiber that binds cholesterol and helps to remove it from the body along with feces. It also contains phytosterols, compounds that are a natural alternative to medicines that help lower cholesterol and triglycerides.
3. Useful for diabetes. The glycemic index of this product is quite low, so it is allowed to use in diabetes (if you do not overeat) even despite the fact that the fruits contain quite a lot of sugar. Figs do not adversely affect blood sugar and do not increase it. Potassium contained in fig fruits plays an auxiliary role, since it is involved in the process of glucose uptake.
4. It treats tonsillitis. Figs help to soothe irritation, inflammation and sore throat, and also have an enveloping effect and contribute to recovery.
5. It is a prophylactic against colon cancer. One of the key factors in preventing the development of colon cancer is the regular emptying of the body from food waste. In order to prevent such effects, it is necessary to use a sufficient amount of fiber. Therefore, figs, which contain quite a lot of fiber, can be a prevention against such diseases.
6. Supports bone health. Figs contain many essential nutrients to maintain healthy bones. Although calcium is considered the main mineral that is necessary for bone strength and health, it is important to remember that this is not the only element that helps bone growth. Many other excipients also play an important role, with most of them contained in figs.
7. Helps to lose weight. Insulin and ghrelin are two important hormones that can negatively affect the process of losing weight, since both stimulate hunger. To effectively lose weight, a number of factors provoking disruptions should be excluded. Figs contain substances that help you feel full for a long time. Also, magnesium and potassium present in the fruit increase insulin sensitivity and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
8. Supports liver health. Figs support the liver, as the substances contained in the fruits are involved in detoxification processes and help normalize the functioning of liver enzymes.
9. Helps maintain vision. One of the most important nutrients that support eye health and, accordingly, vision, is vitamin A, as well as carotenoids and antioxidants. Figs are not an extremely rich source of these nutrients, but contain them in small quantities. Continuous consumption of figs helps maintain eye health, prevents macular degeneration, improves night vision, and also reduces the likelihood of developing cataracts.
10. Supports reproductive health. An interesting fact is that at one time in Greece, figs were used as a natural aphrodisiac. He was considered a sacred fruit and very often associated with love and fertility. Science claims that this product improves libido and fertility, as it contains minerals (zinc, manganese and magnesium), which play an important role in promoting reproductive health.

For women

Figs are a very healthy food for women, as they have a number of useful properties:

1. Helps relieve menstrual cramps.In order to feel the effect, you need to consume 3 fruits daily during menstruation, which will help relieve discomfort.
2. Normalizes the balance of vital chemical elements in the female body.
3. The substances contained in the fruits help control the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet radiation, so it is recommended to use figs before the bathing season. This contributes to the formation of an even tan. The fruit contains melanin, it protects the body from the harmful effects of sunlight.
4. Figs are a low-calorie product, so it can be used by women on a diet.
5. Figs can also help with vitiligo. Juice from unripe fruits can be used as an ointment for the skin.
6. Masks made on the basis of figs help the skin maintain elasticity and also have a rejuvenating effect.
7. Fruits also help control body weight, as they prevent sudden rapid jumps in weight. In order to feel the effect, you need to eat up to two fruits per day.

Figs can also be used in the field of cosmetology. It contains vitamin A, which has a beneficial effect on the skin, as well as calcium, which supports dental health. Quite often, in various kinds of diets, sweet forbidden foods replace the figs. It does not contain harmful sugars and is a low-calorie product. In addition, it has a number of healing properties. In addition to ingestion, it can be rubbed into the skin, and various masks and tinctures can be made on its basis.

For men

Fig fruits must be included in the male diet. This product helps the body produce more energy, and can also act as a treatment for impotence. To improve sexual function, place 2 fig fruits in a glass with milk and let stand for 9-12 hours (night). In the morning, you can drink the drink, and eat the fruits. The method is quite simple, but effective. Figs can also act as a prophylactic for prostatitis.

During pregnancy

Figs are good for pregnant women. The fruits help to cope with hunger, normalize the digestive tract, and also provide energy. Figs contain quite a lot of iron, so it is highly recommended to use it during pregnancy. In addition, the fruit contains potassium, which supports the health of bone tissue and heart muscle. Figs also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Another valuable property is the maintenance of normal blood composition. Regular consumption of figs will not allow blood to thicken, so the likelihood of thrombosis is significantly reduced. Also, figs are useful during pregnancy for those women who have a genetic tendency to varicose veins.

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, the female body is depleted, so vitamins and minerals are not always present in the right amount. Many useful substances leave the body through breast milk, and a woman, due to their lack, begins to feel weak and tired. For this reason, it is necessary to replenish the diet with foods that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. One such product is fig.

Fruits contribute to the restoration of mother's health, as well as enrich breast milk. Here are the rules you should follow when breastfeeding:

1. You can start using figs already during pregnancy. This will help reduce the likelihood of product allergies in the baby after birth.
2. After birth, it is recommended to wait a minimum of 2 months so that the baby's body can adapt and respond normally to the product.
3. In the first intake, figs should be consumed in small quantities before lunch. After feeding, you need to watch the baby for about two days. If there are no changes in behavior, the very next day you are allowed to eat 1 whole fruit.
4. If even slight changes in the behavior of the baby are observed, then it is necessary to exclude figs from your diet for 30 days, and only after that try again.

For kids

It is believed that figs can be given to children after 9 months. In the case of the normal development of the baby at this point, the body will already be sufficiently adapted to such products and will be able to process them without problems. It is important to carefully monitor the behavior and reaction of the child to the fruits of the fig tree.

Rules for the introduction of figs in the diet:

1. The first time is allowed to give the child no more than 0.5 tsp. figs (dried). It should be soaked in boiling water and beat until puree. Dried figs are pretty sweet, so you don't need to add sugar.
2. It is recommended to gradually increase portions to 0.7 fig fruits (daily rate). This will be enough for children under 1 year old.
3. When the child turns one and a half years old, it is allowed to give a whole dried fruit. When using the product in large quantities, diarrhea or indigestion may occur.
4. You should not feed the child with figs every day, the optimal period between use is considered to be from 1 to 2 days.

What is the use of dried figs

1. Dried figs are rich in potassium, a nutrient that helps control high blood pressure. Given the lifestyle of a person in today's realities and the quality of his nutrition, the body may lack this mineral. This, in turn, contributes to the progression of hypertension. Since dry figs contain quite a lot of potassium, it will help maintain a normal level of blood pressure.
2. Dry figs are a good source of dietary fiber. People who want to lose weight or just keep fit should consume fiber-rich foods. Therefore, figs are great as a dietary product and, in addition, help maintain a feeling of fullness throughout the day.
3. Women who regularly eat fiber-rich foods are less likely to get breast cancer. Dry figs are one of the best foods that contain natural fiber.
4. Dried figs have a very beneficial effect on the skin. It helps fight rashes, acne, blackheads and other skin diseases.
5. Dried figs contain minerals and nutrients that help significantly improve hair health. Fig fruits can prevent scalp itching, dandruff, and hair loss.
6. Figs support brain health, due to the presence of antioxidants in the composition. A study conducted in 2014 showed that figs can improve memory and reduce oxidative damage to the brain. Antioxidants help prevent blood clots and protect against neuronal degeneration. Figs have a beneficial effect on the brain and can support its work, especially those areas that are responsible for memory.

Why dried figs smell like iodine
Dried figs actually contain iodine, so it has a characteristic aftertaste and aroma. Of course, not everyone likes it, so some people prefer fresh fruits.

The benefits of fig jam

Jam:

• has a laxative and diuretic effect;
• normalizes the central nervous system;
• It is a prophylactic against anemia;
• It has antipyretic effect;
• treats bronchial asthma.

Is it possible to eat figs while losing weight

Fig fruits can be used as a means to fight extra pounds. In order to effectively reduce weight, the product should be consumed instead of one of the main meals, such as dinner. You can eat 3-4 fruits, but not more, drink tea (without sugar). Figs soaked in cold water or chilled in a refrigerator contributes to a more intensive course of metabolic processes.

It is recommended to use figs with skin and not mix it with other products.

Figs in medicine

Ancient Egyptian, ancient Greek and ancient Arabian doctors knew about the healing properties of fig fruits. The fruits were used to treat various diseases, for example, with malaria, fever, as well as leprosy.Figs were considered an antidote, but, in addition, it was also used as a cosmetic product.

With diabetes

In diabetes mellitus, it is necessary to carefully approach the selection of consumed products. Figs are a product that is not recommended for use in this disease, and in some cases is even completely prohibited. People with mild diabetes are allowed to include figs in their diet, but only in fresh form and in small quantities.

Due to its high glucose content, figs help lower blood sugar. It is also worth noting a small glycemic index (35 in total). These factors make it possible to consume fig fruits in the case of a mild to moderate degree of illness, but again only in moderation. But dried fruits should be excluded from the daily diet at any degree, since they are quite high in calories.

With pancreatitis

Figs can be dangerous for pancreatitis, as it increases the load on the pancreas. It can also stimulate intestinal motility, leading to gas formation or diarrhea. Another most dangerous point is that after consuming figs due to disorders caused by pancreatitis, destruction of pancreatic tissue can begin, which will lead to pancreatic necrosis. If we talk about remission, then during this period, dried figs can be added to the diet, but only if the patient feels well and in the absence of inflammation.

With gastritis

If there is no exacerbation of the disease, then figs can be consumed, but its amount must be limited. The substances contained in the product help soothe the stomach with inflammation, and enveloping the walls of this organ will provide its protection. This product can be found in some drugs that help treat gastritis.

For the intestines

The composition of this product contains a lot of dietary fiber. Dietary fibers very well support the work of the digestive tract, and in case of problems with the digestive system, they have a beneficial effect, which leads to a speedy recovery. In addition, processes that are associated with the elimination of toxins from the body are normalized, which leads to the normalization of peristalsis, and also prevents the occurrence of constipation.

For constipation

Fig fruits are very beneficial for the digestive system and help fight constipation. Fiber contained in the fruit helps to eliminate stagnation of stool, and also helps to cleanse the stomach. As a preventive measure, you should consume fresh fig fruits or make tinctures with their participation in milk or water.

With gout

Figs contain a lot of sugars, which are quite harmful for gout. It is also worth noting that oxalic acid is present in the fruits, so this product is contraindicated in this disease.

For the liver

Figs - a product that has a hematopoietic effect, so it especially helps in the work of the liver. In order to improve liver function, it is recommended to use milk with figs. To make it, you need to boil figs (50 g) in hot milk (1 cup). After cooling, grind and drink.

With hemorrhoids

Quite often, hemorrhoid cones occur as a result of constipation. For this reason, you can get rid or alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids only after cleansing the digestive tract. Figs help regulate the digestive tract and fight constipation. The fruits contain seeds that stimulate intestinal motility.

To alleviate hemorrhoids, it is necessary to wash 3-4 fruits in hot water and soak for 9-12 hours (overnight). In the morning, you need to eat figs and drink water (in which he soaked). You can also feel the effect of this product if you eat figs in the evening. This course is designed for 3-4 weeks.

With cholecystitis

With cholecystitis, figs are allowed. Based on the fruits of fig tree, you can even prepare products that help in the treatment of cholecystitis. To do this, remove seeds from lemons (0.5 kg) and figs (1.2 kg), and then, without removing the peel, grind both ingredients separately (for example, in a meat grinder). Stir lemons with figs, sugar (0.5 kg) and honey (7 tbsp). You need to take the drug before meals for 2–4 tbsp.

Against cough

Figs are a product that can help get rid of cough. In addition, drinks and decoctions based on figs can strengthen immunity, relieve sore throats, bring down the temperature, and also remove other symptoms of the common cold.

Figs-based traditional medicine recipes

Cough medicine

Before starting cooking, the product must be rinsed. For one fruit, take one and a half glasses of warm milk. Further:

1. Put milk on the stove.
2. Add figs to milk.
3. After boiling, wait another half hour. After that, remove the milk from the heat and wrap the container with a thick towel to give the fig a good steam.
4. After the milk has cooled, let it brew (2–2.5 hours), then pour into a glass.
5. Take before meals 3-4 times a day. One serving - 2-3 tablespoons (for children under 5 years - 2 tsp).

Decoction for colitis, dysentery and enterocolitis

Boil dry fruits (2 tablespoons) in milk (200 ml) and grind. Take a decoction (in the form of heat) 2-3 times a day for half a glass.

To strengthen the cardiovascular system

1. Pour dried fruit (50 g) with warm water (1 cup).
2. Let it brew for 6 hours.
3. Take in small portions before meals throughout the day.

The course should last 10-12 days.

Figs in cosmetology

Figs give the skin the ability to retain fluid, which helps maintain its elasticity. Therefore, there are many fig-based masks for both skin and hair that help maintain a healthy and fresh appearance.

For face

Skin Infusion
Figs (25 g) pour boiling water (1 cup). Let it brew for several hours, then strain. Wipe your face several times a day.

Cleansing mask
Grind the pulp of figs. Apply the resulting mass to the face. Wait 10-15 minutes, then wash your face with water.

Mask for aging skin
Ingredients:

• figs - 2 pcs.;
• Mango - 1 pc.;
• cottage cheese - 0.5 tbsp .;
• honey - 1 tbsp;
• oil (peach) - 1 tbsp;
• egg - 1.

How to cook:

1. Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly.
2. Apply a warm mixture to the skin.
3. Wait 30-40 minutes.
4. Remove the mask with a cotton pad, after wetting it in milk (fresh).
5. Rinse your face with water.

The mask should be done 2 times a week for 2 months.

For hair

Hair Growth Mask

1. Dried figs (2 pcs.) Pour milk (1 cup).
2. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Beat the mixture until smooth.
3. Add honey (1 tbsp) and “wet” yeast (10 g) to the mixture.
4. Cool mass and apply to hair.
5. Put a hat (made of polyethylene) on your head and a towel over it.
6. Wait 1.5 hours.
7. Wash off the mask with water.

Mask for nourishing hair
How to cook:

1. Cut the fresh fig fruit (1 pc.), Remove the pulp.
2. Milk (2 tablespoons) and pulp are placed in a container.
3. Add 6 pieces of vitamins B1 and B6 (capsules).
4. Mix thoroughly and apply to hair.

Harm and contraindications

Since figs contain a lot of dietary fiber, as well as sugar, it is not recommended for use in diabetes (although in some cases the fruit is even useful), as well as in case of gastrointestinal problems.

Also, do not risk people suffering from gout and those who have inflammatory diseases of the stomach, especially during an exacerbation.

In very rare cases, figs may be allergic.Therefore, all people who are prone to allergies should treat this product with caution.

How to choose and store figs

In fact, buying high-quality fresh fig tree fruits is not so easy, as the product is perishable.

Tips:

1. When choosing, pay attention to the smell of the fruit. In case there are signs of fermentation and a sour smell is present, such a product is not worth buying.
2. Next, you need to evaluate the integrity of the fruits, their elasticity, gently pressing the surface of the figs.
3. Softened, slippery, wet fruits are also better not to take.
4. A completely hard fruit should not be bought, because, most likely, it was picked before it ripened.

Store figs are usually stored for only a few days, sometimes up to 2 weeks. It is recommended to use it immediately after purchase. Also, the product can be placed in the refrigerator for 1-3 days. The container in which the fruits will be stored must be open so that excess moisture can freely evaporate. In addition, the fruits of fig tree can be frozen, especially since this practically does not affect the taste and properties of the product.

Freezing will allow you to store the product for about a year, after thawing it must be consumed within 2 hours.

How to eat figs

Figs have a sweet taste and a rather rich aroma. It is usually eaten dry, but fresh fruits are also relatively popular. If you decide to eat a fresh fruit, then do not forget to rinse it with running water before eating. Fig peel can not be removed, but eat with it.

How much can you eat per day

Figs are a high-calorie product and also contain quite a lot of sugar. With uncontrolled use for a long time, fat deposits occur. For this reason, it is not recommended to eat more than 4-5 fruits per day.

Can I eat at night

Experts do not recommend consuming figs before bedtime. The carbohydrates contained in this product excite the nervous system, so sleep problems can occur.

Do I need to wash dried figs before eating?

In order to clean the product of accumulated dirt, before using it, it is mandatory to rinse it well, and then soak in water for 2–5 minutes.

What can I cook with figs: recipes

Fresh fruits of figs are very suitable for canning; jams, preserves and stewed fruits are often cooked from them. Figs can also be eaten dried. They are perfect for making bakery products, can act as a filling with other products such as peaches, oranges, lemons, raspberries, nuts, cheese, cottage cheese and cinnamon. Some national cuisines have fig bread. In addition, the fruits can be used in the manufacture of marmalade, sweets, cookies, pastille, cakes and gingerbread cookies.

Jam

Ingredients:

• figs - 1 kg;
• granulated sugar - 1 kg;
• water - 2 tbsp.

1. Rinse the figs and cut off the ponytails (tops on both sides).
2. Figs put in a saucepan, add sugar and water, and then put to cook over very low heat.
3. When the sugar has dissolved and the water boils, let the mixture boil for another five minutes (remember to remove the foam).
4. Wait until it has completely cooled and cook again, then again for 5 minutes, boil and cool.
5. Repeat the process of boiling-cooling 4–5 times. For the last time, boil the jam for 10-15 minutes.

Compote

Ingredients:

• figs - 1 kg;
• water - 1 l;
• sugar - 1 tsp

How to cook: Rinse the figs. Pour boiling water. Cook for 15 minutes.

Interesting Figs About Figs

1. The term fig, or another name for fig, comes from the Latin word ficus, as well as from the more ancient Hebrew word feg.
2. In addition to using this product in the human diet, figs are also actively used in the pharmaceutical industry in the production of various creams and lotions.
3. Fig is a medium-sized tree whose height can reach 3–9 meters. Sometimes, in exceptional climatic conditions, figs can grow up to 15 meters.
4. Figs have large leaves, which are divided into 3-5 petals. It is worth noting that, according to the Bible, Adam and Eve used fig leaves, which helped to hide their nakedness.
5. Fig root is usually located at the surface of the earth. The root diameter is 3 times the crown.
6. Some varieties of figs, such as those that grow in South Africa, have incredibly deep roots. The deepest recorded roots reach a depth of 120 meters.
7. Figs are pollinated by a special kind of wasp, which spends most of its life on a fig tree. Various animals that eat figs contribute to the spread of this culture, as they disperse the seeds when emptied through feces.
8. Figs can reproduce without pollen.
9. In trees, as a rule, fruits grow on branches. Nevertheless, in some species of figs, for example, in varieties growing in the Philippines, the fruits grow directly on the stems.
10. Juice extracted from fig leaves can be used to heal wounds from insect bites.
11. These fruits are recommended for people who want to quit smoking. Due to their high alkalinity, they can reduce the urge to take a cigarette.
12. Many people like to drink coffee, and it is difficult for them to refuse it, even if this product is contraindicated to them. But do not despair, because to reduce the physiological need for this drink, you can replace it with figs. This will help to tolerate the lack of coffee in the diet.
13. Figs were widespread in ancient Greece, and its cultivation was described by Aristotle and Theophrastus.
14. Figs were one of the everyday dishes of the Romans.
15. It is known that the first Roman emperor Augustus was poisoned by figs from his garden.
16. About figs is narrated in many religious stories and narratives. For example, Buddha attained enlightenment precisely under the fig tree.
17. Figs were considered one of the royal fruits. It was served to the Egyptian kings on a platter that was served to the maids. It is also worth noting that Cleopatra died of smallpox, which she contracted through figs.
18. Fresh fig fruits contain many phytonutrients and antioxidants. For example, the fruit is rich in carotenes, lutein, tannins and chlorogenic acid, as well as antioxidant vitamins such as A, E and K. These phytochemicals help the body in the fight against harmful free radicals, as well as reduce the likelihood of malignant tumors and various infections.
19. Dried figs are an excellent source of minerals, which are important for the formation of healthy red blood cells, as well as for the oxidation of cells.
20. Fig fruits can be stored no more than 2–4 hours after harvest. For this reason, this product is completely non-transportable. In order to preserve the fruits of figs as long as possible, they are dried or canned. Only in this case they will be suitable for year-round consumption.
21. Specialists studying the nutritional value of this product and its beneficial properties say that the quality of the fruit has a direct correlation with the number of grains in the pulp. The quality is determined in such a way - if 1 g of pulp accounts for more than 900 grains, then such a fruit is considered good, if the seeds are less than 500 - mediocre.
22. There are many beliefs, one of which suggests that planting figs in a bedroom will bring happiness to the family. Such a plant in the office gives hope for a successful career.
23. Figs have other names. For example, fig fruits are sometimes called wine berries. The fig received this name as a result of the fact that when ripened, the fruits are exposed to sunlight, and this leads to the process of fermentation of the fruit pulp.
24. According to ancient sources, figs were present in the diet of the great commander Alexander of Macedon. He took dried fruits on long campaigns in order to restore strength before the upcoming battles.

Photo of figs