Figs

Fig, fig tree, fig tree, fig tree… All these are names of the same plant with delicious, sweet fruits. Figs are rich in many nutrients, antioxidants and vitamins. Many people have never tasted the fresh fruits of the fig tree, but meanwhile they are radically different from the taste of dried fruits and rather resemble a mixture of peach and strawberries.

General characteristics

Figs are the fruits of a subtropical tree of the ficus genus. On stony soil it grows as a shrub, although in more favorable conditions it can turn into a 11-meter tree. During the season, one such plant is capable of producing several hundred fruits.

Fruits of different varieties can differ not only in color, but also in taste. The color of the fruit can be from black-purple to greenish-yellow, and the color of the flesh can vary from soft pink to purple or amber. However, they are all pear-shaped, with juicy pulp and multiple seeds inside. Biologists speak of the existence of more than a thousand varieties of figs.

The fig tree has a long and rich history ^[1]. Archaeologists have found fossilized figs in Neolithic settlements. These fruits are mentioned in the Bible and other ancient writings. Some researchers suggest that the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden was not an apple, but a fig.

It is believed that the ancient Egyptians were the first to grow these trees, although according to another version, the birthplace of the plant is Asia Minor. Then the plant appeared in Crete, and around the 30th century BC. e. The ancient Greeks made figs a staple of their traditional diet. They revered these fruits so much that they even created a law prohibiting the export of the best varieties of fig trees. In ancient Rome, the fruit was considered sacred. According to legend, the she-wolf who nursed the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, loved to rest under a fig tree. Already in ancient times, about XNUMX varieties of this culture were known to the ancients. The Spanish conquerors brought the fig tree to the Western Hemisphere in the XNUMXth century. Today, some of the largest producers of figs are Turkey, Greece, Spain and Portugal. The fig tree grows in the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Crimea, the Carpathians, as well as in the Mediterranean countries, in some regions of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and Russia.

Nutritional value

Fig fruit is a delicious dessert with few calories but rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. ^[2].

Interestingly, in terms of antioxidant content, figs are compared with apples. If we talk about dried fruits, then in them the concentration of all components increases several times. True, this also applies to calorie indicators: 100 g of dried fruits contain almost 250 kcal versus 74 kcal in a similar amount of fresh fruits.

Benefits for the body

The rich chemical composition of the fig tree makes the fruits useful: they prevent and treat many disorders in the body. ^[3].

The healing effect of the fruit in diabetes mellitus, bronchitis, asthma, indigestion and genitourinary system is known. ^[4].

Lowers blood pressure

Fig fruits are good sources of potassium, a mineral that affects blood pressure. In the diet of many people, there is not enough fruits and vegetables, but there is an extremely high amount of very salty foods. Under such circumstances, a potassium deficiency develops, an excess of sodium and, as a result, hypertension. The results of laboratory experiments have shown that if you introduce figs into the diet, it is easy to restore healthy potassium levels and stabilize blood pressure in just a few weeks.

Promotes weight loss

The fruits of the fig tree are rich in fiber, on which body weight largely depends. Researchers say that fiber-rich foods not only keep you full for longer, but also promote faster weight loss. Fresh figs are also suitable as a source of fiber. However, it is important to understand that in dried form it is a very high-calorie product, and for those who want to get rid of extra pounds, this is not very good news.

Useful in diabetes

Few people realize that fig leaves can also be included in the diet. However, in some cultures, these greens are actively eaten, and, as the researchers say, they do it right. In the leaves of the fig tree, substances have been found that have antidiabetic properties. This means that diabetics who consume fig leaf extract need lower doses of insulin injections. ^[5].

Protects the cardiovascular system

An animal study has shown that an extract derived from green fig leaves can lower triglycerides (the form in which fats are found in the blood). Fruits contain pectin, which is a soluble fiber, and it cleanses the body of excess cholesterol. ^[6]. And this is an important fact for maintaining heart health. Dried fig tree fruits are no less useful. They contain phenols, Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids reduce the likelihood of developing coronary heart disease.

It has anti-cancer properties.

And again we will focus on fig leaves.

Not so long ago, scientists added another feature to the list of the beneficial properties of this plant – the ability to protect against cancer.

Based on the results of laboratory experiments, researchers suggested that fig leaf extract contains substances that inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells, including skin cancer. ^[7]. The fiber contained in fruits protects the body from free radicals and prevents the growth of malignant tumors in the intestines. For the female body (especially after menopause), fruits are useful as a prophylactic against breast cancer. By the way, in Chinese medicine, figs are also popular as a natural anti-cancer medicine.

Improves digestion

It is enough to eat 3 fig fruits daily to protect yourself from many disorders of the digestive system. In particular, the fiber contained in the fruit improves intestinal motility, regulates its functioning and prevents constipation. ^[8].

Powerful antioxidant

A huge amount of antioxidant substances is concentrated in the leaves, pulp and skin of the fruit of the fig tree.

They stop the oxidative processes in the body. Researchers say that in dried fruit, the amount of antioxidants exceeds that in fresh figs. This fact should console people for whom these exotic fruits are not available fresh.

Restores Calcium Reserves

Figs are rich in calcium, which allows you to enroll the fruit in foods that strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In addition, its fruits contain phosphorus, which also stimulates the growth of bone tissue. ^[9].

Treats bronchitis

The unique chemical composition of fig leaves makes them an ideal component for medicinal tea. Brewed greens of this plant is useful for respiratory diseases and bronchitis. Also, this tool is used to prevent and relieve seizures in patients with asthma.

Antibacterial and antifungal agent

Malaysian scientists said that fig fruits have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Experience has shown that substances that are part of the fruit, kill harmful bacteria in the mouth, as well as cause the death of some fungi.

Eliminates sexual dysfunction

For many centuries, traditional healers have resorted to figs in the treatment of sexual dysfunction, infertility, or weak erections. In many cultures, figs are known as a powerful aphrodisiac. To restore sexual strength in ancient times, it was advised to eat 2 fruits daily, which were previously soaked in milk during the night.

Smoothes wrinkles

Indian pharmacists also made their contribution to the study of the beneficial properties of figs. After a series of studies, they announced: fig tree extract effectively smoothes wrinkles, and also brightens age spots, freckles and acne marks. ^[10].

Other useful properties

The list of healing properties of figs does not end there.

Over the years of research into the functions of the fig tree, scientists have determined its healing abilities in more than 40 diseases of the digestive, endocrine, reproductive and respiratory systems. ^[11].

Figs beneficial effect on the body with:

• angina;
• whooping cough;
• indigestion;
• abdominal cramps;
• fever;
• anemia;
• liver disease;
• paralysis;
• skin diseases;
• ear pains;
• poor eyesight;
• boils;
• abscesses;
• venereal diseases;
• abnormal acidity of the body ^[12].

Use in cosmetology

Puree of fig pulp, applied to the skin of the face, will help get rid of acne. Cosmetologists advise applying therapeutic masks daily for 15-20 minutes. And the milk juice from the fig stem will help get rid of warts and corns. A gruel of baked fruits treats boils, abscesses, and inflammations on the skin. The antioxidant properties of fig juice will restore the skin to a beautiful color, radiance and smoothness.

The pulp of the fruit is suitable for making homemade scrubs (mixed with sugar and a little olive oil) and various masks. One of the most effective masks for improving skin tone consists of fig pulp, powdered ginger, oatmeal, and a few drops of bergamot essential oil. The peel of a fresh fig tree, which should be wiped over the face, will help restore smoothness to the skin.

The healing properties of figs are also useful for hair. In particular, masks based on fruit mass make curls obedient, smooth, shiny, moisturize them and prevent the appearance of gray hair.

Some caveats

Figs are definitely a very healthy fruit. However, overindulgence often causes diarrhea, and the high sugar content can cause dental disease. In some people, the fruits and juice of the plant cause allergies.

How to choose and store

Fresh figs – a perishable fruit, which is desirable to eat in a day or two after purchase.

A good fresh fruit is easily recognizable by its rich color, delicate texture (but not friable), and firm stem. The aroma of the ripe fruit is tender and sweet. A sour smell indicates that it has begun to deteriorate, a bitter one indicates that the fruit has not yet ripened. It is better to give preference to fully ripe, as they contain more antioxidants.

When buying dried fruits, it is also important to pay attention to their appearance, texture and smell. They should also be soft, with a pleasant smell, without damage and mold.

Ripe fruit should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in paper or placed in a shallow container. This is necessary so that the tender fruits do not dry out and wrinkle. Unripe fruits are stored at room temperature, but away from sunlight. Dried ones will stay fresh for several months if stored in a cool and dark place (maybe a refrigerator). In any case, the fruits of the fig tree must be isolated from extraneous pungent odors, since they have the ability to quickly absorb aromas from the outside.

How to eat a fig tree

Before use, fresh fruits (and dried fruits too) should be thoroughly rinsed with cold water, then remove the stem and pat dry with a paper towel.

Dried figs are ready to eat. Although some advise to briefly soak dried fruits in water or fruit juice before eating. So they will become more juicy.

Fresh and dried fig tree goes well with oatmeal. Pieces of fruit can be added to yogurt, ice cream and other desserts. This fruit will be a great addition to a salad of fennel, arugula and parmesan. In some countries, it is customary to stuff a fresh fig tree with goat cheese and chopped almonds. An interesting combination is dried figs with poultry, lamb or venison.

You will never see flowers on the branches of the fig tree. The fact is that they are hidden inside … of the fruit. Tiny flowers eventually turn into small seeds, of which there are so many in each fruit.

Figs – an amazing fruit with unusual properties, including healing. Maybe that’s why for several thousand years he has been one of man’s favorite fruits.

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