Figs: what are they, useful properties and contraindications

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

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

What are figs and where do they grow

The fig tree is about 9-10 meters tall. The tree has grayish-brown bark and curved branches with large leaves. The foliage has a darker color on the outside and a lighter color underneath. The fruit has a delicate skin, the flesh is red in color, and the fruit itself is quite sweet.

The plant is biparental, as the inflorescences grow on different trees. Flowers are located in the axils of the leaves and have a rather unassuming appearance. They are pollinated by wasps that live inside the flowers and carry the pollen to neighboring trees.

Figs are unpretentious plants, so they can grow in poor conditions. Before planting the trees, the soil may not be treated at all. The only factor that can interfere with growth is excessively wet soil. The fig tree is not affected by insect pests. Propagation takes place through seeds, cuttings and roots. Figs bear fruit 2-3 years after planting, on the 7th year you can already harvest. The life expectancy of the tree is 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. Insect pollinators, which overwinter on the trees, may not tolerate the cold.

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

Types

Several main varieties of figs can be distinguished:

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

Composition and calories

Calories - 54 kcal.

• Proteins - 0.7 g.
• Fats - 0,2 g.
• Carbohydrates - 12 gr.
• 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 benefits

1. Eliminates constipation. Figs are very useful for the gastrointestinal tract, as they help fight constipation. It contains substances involved in the digestive process. Soluble fiber is an excellent aid to the body, because it helps to moisten hardened stools, which prevents constipation, and can also get rid of this disease if it exists.
2. Reduces cholesterol levels. Figs contain substances that help reduce cholesterol in the body. Pectin is a soluble fiber that binds cholesterol and helps flush it out of the body with the feces. It also contains phytosterols - compounds that are a natural alternative to medications that help lower cholesterol and triglycerides.
3. It is useful for diabetes. The glycemic index of this product is quite low, so it is allowed to eat with diabetes (if not to overeat) even though the fruit contains quite a lot of sugar. Figs have no negative effect on blood sugar and do not contribute to its rise. Potassium, contained in figs, plays an auxiliary role as it participates in the process of glucose assimilation.
4. Treats sore throats. Figs help soothe irritation, inflammation and sore throat, and have an enveloping effect and promote healing.
5. It is a preventative against colon cancer. One of the key factors in preventing colon cancer is to ensure that the body empties itself of food waste on a regular basis. In order to prevent such effects, it is necessary to consume sufficient amounts of fiber. Therefore, figs, which contain quite a lot of fiber, can be a prevention against such diseases.
6. Maintains bone health. Figs contain many essential nutrients to maintain bone health. Although calcium is considered the main mineral needed for strong and healthy bones, it is important to remember that it is not the only element that helps bone growth. Many other auxiliaries also play an important role, with figs containing most of them.
7. Helps to lose weight. Insulin and ghrelin are two important hormones that can negatively affect weight loss because both stimulate hunger. In order to lose weight effectively, you should eliminate a number of factors that provoke breakdowns. Figs contain substances that help you feel satiated for a long time. Also, magnesium and potassium present in the fruit increase insulin sensitivity and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
8. Supports the health of the liver. Figs support the work of the liver, because the substances contained in the fruit involved in the detoxification process and help normalize the work of liver enzymes.
9. Helps maintain vision. One of the most important nutrients that support eye health and thus vision is vitamin A, as well as carotenoids and antioxidants. Figs are not an extremely rich source of these nutrients, but do contain them in small amounts. Consistent consumption of fig fruit helps provide support for eye health, prevents yellow spot degeneration, improves night vision, and reduces the likelihood of cataracts.
10. Supports reproductive health. An interesting fact is that at one time in Greece, figs were used as a natural aphrodisiac. It was considered a sacred fruit and very often was associated with love and fertility. Science claims that this product improves libido and fertility because it contains minerals (zinc, manganese and magnesium) that play an important role in promoting reproductive health.

For women

Figs are a very useful food for women because they have a number of health benefits:

1. It helps to alleviate menstrual pain. In order to feel the effect, you need to consume 3 fruits every day during your period, which will help alleviate discomfort.
2. Normalizes the balance of vital chemical elements in the female body.
3. The substances contained in the fruit help control the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet light, so it is recommended to consume figs before the bathing season. It contributes to the formation of an even tan. The fruit contains melanin, which protects the body from the harmful effects of sunlight.
4. Figs are a low-calorie product, so they can be used by women on a diet.
5. Figs can also help with vitiligo. The juice of the unripe fruit can be used as an ointment for the skin.
6. Masks made with figs help maintain skin elasticity and also have a rejuvenating effect.
7. The fruit also helps control body weight, as it prevents sudden rapid weight spikes. You need to eat up to two fruits a day to feel the effects.

Figs can also be used in the field of cosmetology. It contains vitamin A, which is beneficial for the skin, as well as calcium, which supports dental health. Quite often in all kinds of diets figs replace sweet prohibited products. It contains no harmful sugars and is a low-calorie product. In addition, it has a number of medicinal properties. In addition to ingestion, it can be rubbed into the skin, make on its basis various masks and tinctures.

For men

Figs should be included in the male diet. This product helps the body to produce more energy, and can also act as a treatment for impotence. To improve sexual function, you should put 2 figs in a glass with milk and let the mixture stand for 9-12 hours (overnight). In the morning, you can drink the drink, and eat the fruit. The method is quite simple, yet effective. Figs can also act as a preventive measure against prostatitis.

In pregnancy

Figs are useful for pregnant women. The fruit helps to cope with hunger, normalizes the function of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as gives energy. Figs contain quite a lot of iron, so it is highly recommended to eat them 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 the blood to thicken, so the likelihood of thrombosis is greatly 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 trace elements are not always present in the right amounts. Many useful substances leave the body through breast milk, and the woman because of their lack begins to feel weak and tired. For this reason, it is necessary to supplement the diet with products that are rich in essential vitamins and trace elements. One of these products is figs.

The fruit helps to restore the health of the mother, and also enriches the breast milk. Here are the rules to follow while breastfeeding:

1. You can start consuming figs as early as during pregnancy. This will help reduce the likelihood of allergies to the product in the baby after birth.
2. After birth, it is recommended to wait for at least 2 months, so that the baby's body could adapt and react normally to the product.
3. The first intake of figs should be consumed in small quantities before dinner. After feeding, you need to observe the baby for about two days. If there has been no change in behavior, the next day it is allowed to eat 1 whole fruit.
4. If even minor changes in the baby's behavior are observed, it is necessary to exclude figs from his diet for 30 days, and already after that to repeat the attempt.

For children

It is believed that figs can be given to children after 9 months. In the case of normal development of the baby by this time the body will be sufficiently adapted to such products and will be able to process them without problems. It is important to carefully monitor the child's behavior and reaction to figs.

Rules for the introduction of figs in the diet:

1. The first time is allowed to give a child no more than 0.5 tsp. figs (dried). It should be soaked in boiling water and mashed. Dried figs are quite sweet, so you do not need to add sugar.
2. It is recommended to gradually increase the portions to 0.7 figs (daily rate). This will be enough for children under 1 year old.
3. When the child is a year and a half, it is allowed to give a whole dried fruit. When using the product in large quantities can cause diarrhea or stomach upsets.
4. It is not necessary to feed a child figs every day, the optimal period between the use is from 1 to 2 days.

What are the benefits of dried figs

1. Dried figs are rich in potassium, a nutrient that helps control high blood pressure. Given today's lifestyle and the quality of one's diet, the body may be lacking this mineral. This, in turn, contributes to the progression of hypertension. Since dried figs contain quite a lot of potassium, they can help maintain normal blood pressure levels.
2. Dried figs are a good source of dietary fiber. People who want to lose extra pounds or just keep in shape should consume foods rich in fiber. Therefore, figs are great as a dietary product and also help maintain a feeling of fullness throughout the day.
3. Women who regularly eat foods rich in fiber have a lower risk of getting breast cancer. Dried figs are one of the best foods that contain natural fiber.
4. Dried figs are very beneficial for the skin. It helps to fight rashes, pimples, blackheads and other skin diseases.
5. Dried figs contain minerals and nutrients that help greatly improve hair health. Figs can prevent itchy scalp, dandruff and hair loss.
6. Figs support brain health, which is due to the presence of antioxidants in the composition. A 2014 study found that figs can improve memory and reduce oxidative damage to the brain. Antioxidants help prevent blood clots and protect against neuronal degeneration. Figs have beneficial effects on the brain and can support brain function, especially the areas that are responsible for memory.

Why dried figs smell like iodine
Dried figs do contain iodine, which is why they have a distinctive flavor and aroma. Of course, not everyone likes it, so some people prefer fresh fruit.

The benefits of fig jam

Jam:

• Has a laxative and diuretic effect;
• normalizes the work of the central nervous system;
• Is a prophylactic against anemia;
• Has antipyretic effect;
• It treats bronchial asthma.

Can we eat figs to lose weight?

Figs can be used as a means to combat excess weight. 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 no more, with tea (without sugar). Soaked in cold water or chilled in the refrigerator figs contribute to a more intensive course of metabolic processes.

It is recommended to eat figs with their skins and not to mix them with other products.

Figs in medicine

The medicinal properties of figs were already known to ancient Egyptian, ancient Greek and ancient Arabian healers. Figs were used to treat various diseases, such as malaria, fever, and leprosy. Figs were considered an antidote, but in addition, they were also used as a cosmetic.

For Diabetes

When you have diabetes, you need to be careful with the selection of foods you consume. Figs are a product that is not recommended for use in this disease, and in some cases are even completely prohibited. People with a mild form of diabetes are allowed to include figs in their diet, but only in fresh form and in small quantities.

Because of their high glucose content, figs help to reduce the amount of sugar in the blood. It is also worth noting the low glycemic index (only 35). These factors allow the use of figs in the case of mild to moderate disease, but again, only in moderation. But dried fruits should be excluded from the daily diet at any degree, as they are quite caloric.

In pancreatitis.

Figs can be dangerous in pancreatitis, as they contribute to increased stress on the pancreas. It can also stimulate intestinal motility, leading to gas or diarrhea. Another most dangerous point is that after consuming figs due to the disorders caused by pancreatitis, the destruction of pancreatic tissue can begin, leading to pancreonecrosis. If we talk about remission, 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, you can eat figs, but their quantity should be limited. The substances in the product help soothe the stomach with inflammation, and enveloping the walls of this organ will provide protection. This product can be found as part of some remedies that help treat gastritis.

For the intestines

This product contains a lot of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is very healthy support the GI tract, and in the case of problems with the digestive system - have a beneficial effect, which leads to a speedy recovery. In addition, the processes that are associated with the removal of toxins from the body are also normalized, which leads to the normalization of peristalsis, as well as prevents the occurrence of constipation.

In case of constipation

Figs are very good for the digestive system and help fight constipation. The fiber in the fruit helps to eliminate stagnant stools and also helps to cleanse the stomach. This can be prevented by taking figs fresh or by preparing tinctures with them in milk or water.

For Gout

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

For the liver

Figs are a product that has a hematopoietic effect, so they especially help in the work of the liver. In order to improve liver function, it is recommended to consume milk with figs. For its preparation, you need to lightly boil figs (50 g) in hot milk (1 cup). After cooling, grind and drink.

With hemorrhoids

Quite often hemorrhoids are the result of constipation. For this reason, you can get rid or alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids only after cleansing the digestive tract. Figs help to regulate the gastrointestinal processes and fight constipation. The fruit contains seeds that stimulate intestinal peristalsis.

To relieve hemorrhoids, you need to wash 3-4 fruits in hot water and soak for 9-12 hours (overnight). In the morning, you should eat the figs and drink the water (in which it was soaked). Also the effect of this product can be felt if you eat figs in the evening. This course is designed for 3-4 weeks.

Cholecystitis

In cholecystitis, it is allowed to consume figs. Based on the fruit of the fig tree, you can even prepare remedies that help in the treatment of cholecystitis. For this you need to remove the seeds from lemons (0.5 kg) and figs (1.2 kg), and then, without removing the skin, grind both ingredients separately (eg in a meat grinder). Mix lemons with figs, sugar (0.5 kg) and honey (7 tbsp). Take the remedy before eating 2-4 tbsp.

For coughs

Figs are a product that can help get rid of coughs. In addition, drinks and decoctions based on figs can strengthen the immune system, relieve sore throats, bring down the fever, as well as remove other symptoms of a cold.

Traditional medicine remedies for figs

Cough remedy

Before cooking, the product should be rinsed. Take one and a half cups of warm milk for one fruit. Next:

1. Put the milk on the stove.
2. Add the figs to the milk.
3. After boiling, wait for another half hour. Then take the milk off the heat and wrap the container with a dense towel to let the figs steaming well.
4. After the milk cools, let it infuse (2-2.5 hours), then pour into a glass.
5. Take before meals 3-4 times a day. One serving - 2-3 tbsp. (for children under 5 years - 2 tsp.).

Decoction for colitis, dysentery and enterocolitis

Dry fruits (2 tbsp) boiled in milk (200 ml) and grind. Take decoction (warm) 2-3 times a day for half a cup.

To strengthen the cardiovascular system

1. Pour dried fruits (50 g) with warm water (1 cup).
2. Allow to infuse 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 to maintain its elasticity. Therefore, there are quite a few masks based on figs for both skin and hair, which help maintain a healthy and fresh appearance.

For the face

Infusion for wiping the skin
Pour 25 grams of figs in boiling water (1 cup). Allow to infuse for a few hours, then strain. Rub into face a few times a day.

Purifying mask
Crush figs. Apply to face. Wait 10-15 minutes, then wash your face with water.

Mask for aging skin
Ingredients:

• figs - 2 pcs;
• mango - 1 piece;
• cottage cheese - 0,5 tbsp;
• honey - 1 tbsp;
• oil (peach) - 1 tbsp;
• 1 egg.

How to prepare:

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

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

For hair

Mask for hair growth

1. Pour dried figs (2 pcs.) in milk (1 cup).
2. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Whisk until a homogeneous consistency.
3. Add honey (1 tbsp.) and "wet" yeast (10g).
4. Let the mixture cool and apply to the hair.
5. Put a cap on your head (from polyethylene) and a towel over it.
6. Wait for 1.5 hours.
7. Wash off with water.

Mask to nourish the hair
How to Prepare:

1. Cut open a fresh fig fruit (1 piece), remove the pulp.
2. Put the milk (2 tablespoons) and the pulp in a container.
3. Add 6 vitamins B1 and B6 (in capsules).
4. Mix well and apply to hair.

Health Hazards and Contraindications

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

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

In very rare cases, an allergy to figs can occur. Therefore, all people who are prone to allergies should treat this product with caution.

How to choose and store figs

In fact, it is not easy to buy quality fresh figs, because the product is perishable.

Tips:

1. When choosing, pay attention to the smell of the fruit. If there are signs of fermentation and there is a sour smell, you should not buy such a product.
2. Next, you need to assess the integrity of the fruit, its elasticity by pressing lightly on the surface of the fig.
3. Softened, slippery, wet fruit is also better not to take.
4. You should not buy figs that are too hard, as they will probably have been picked before they were ripe.

Store figs are usually only stored for a few days, sometimes up to 2 weeks. It is recommended to consume it immediately after purchase. You can also put the product in the refrigerator for 1-3 days. The container in which the fruit will be stored should be open, so that excess moisture can freely evaporate. In addition, the fig tree fruits can be frozen, especially since it has almost no effect on the taste and properties of the product.

Freezing will keep the product for about a year, after defrosting it should be consumed within 2 hours.

How to eat figs correctly

Figs have a sweetish taste and quite rich flavor. As a rule, it is eaten in dried form, but fresh fruit is also relatively popular. If you decide to eat the fresh fruit, be sure to rinse it with running water before eating it. You can keep the peel of the figs and eat them along with it.

How much can be eaten per day

Figs are a high-calorie product, and also contain quite a lot of sugar. Uncontrolled consumption over a long period of time creates fat deposits. For this reason, it is not recommended to eat more than 4-5 fruits per day.

Is it possible to eat at night?

Experts do not recommend eating figs before going to bed. The carbohydrates in this product excite the nervous system, so you may have trouble sleeping.

Do you need to wash dried figs before eating them?

In order to clean the product from accumulated dirt, it is mandatory to wash it well before consumption, and then soak it in water for 2-5 minutes.

What can be cooked from figs: recipes

Fresh figs are very well suited for canning, from them often cook jams, jams and compotes. Figs can also be eaten in dried form. They are great for making baked goods, can act as a filling along with other products such as peaches, oranges, lemons, raspberries, nuts, cheese, cottage cheese and cinnamon. Some national cuisines have fig bread. In addition, the fruit can be used in making marmalade, candy, cookies, marshmallows, cakes, and gingerbread.

Jam

Ingredients:

• Figs - 1 kg;
• granulated sugar - 1 kg;
• water - 2 tablespoons.

1. Wash the figs and cut off the tails (the tops on both sides).
2. Place figs in a saucepan, add sugar and water, and then put to boil over very low heat.
3. When the sugar has dissolved and the water comes to a boil, let the mixture simmer for about five more minutes (remembering to remove the foam).
4. Wait until it has cooled completely, and then cook it again, and then simmer and cool for another 5 minutes.
5. The process of boiling-cooling repeat 4-5 times. The last time jam boiled for 10-15 minutes.

Compote .

Ingredients:

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

How to cook: Wash the figs. Pour boiling water. Boil for 15 minutes.

Interesting facts about figs

1. The term "figs," or another name for figs, comes from the Latin word "ficus," as well as the older Hebrew word "feg."
2. In addition to the use of this product in the human diet, figs are also actively used in the pharmaceutical industry in the production of various creams and lotions.
3. Figs are a medium-sized tree, which can reach a height of 3-9 meters. Sometimes in exceptional climatic conditions figs can grow up to 15 meters.
4. The fig has large leaves, which are divided into 3-5 petals. It is worth noting that, according to the Bible, Adam and Eve used fig leaves to hide their nakedness.
5. The root of the fig is usually located near the surface of the ground. The root is three times the diameter of the crown.
6. Some varieties of figs, such as those grown 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 the fig tree. Various animals that eat figs contribute to the spread of the crop because they disperse the seeds when they empty themselves through the feces.
8. Figs can also reproduce without pollen.
9. In trees, the fruit usually grows on the branches. However, in some species of figs, such as varieties growing in the Philippines, the fruit grows directly on the stems.
10. The 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. Because of their high alkalinity, they can reduce the desire to take a cigarette.
12. Many people like to consume coffee, and it is difficult for them to give it up, 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 you to tolerate the absence of coffee in your diet more easily.
13. Figs were widespread in ancient Greece, and their cultivation was described by Aristotle and Theophrastus.
14. Figs were one of the common dishes of the Romans.
15. It is known that the first Roman emperor, Augustus, was poisoned by figs from his garden.
16. Figs are recounted in many religious stories and narratives. For example, it was under a fig tree that Buddha attained enlightenment.
17. Figs were considered one of the royal fruits. It was served to Egyptian kings on a platter that was served by their maids. It is also worth noting that Cleopatra died of smallpox, which she contracted through figs.
18. Fresh figs 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 to fight harmful free radicals and reduce the chances 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 cell oxidation.
20. Figs can be stored for no more than 2-4 hours after picking. For this reason, this product is completely non-transportable. To be able to preserve figs as long as possible, they are dried or canned. Only in this case they will be suitable for year-round consumption.
21. Specialists who study the nutritional value of this product and its useful 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 the following way: if there are more than 900 grains per 1 g of flesh, then such a fruit is considered to be good, in case if the seeds are less than 500 - mediocre.
22. There are many beliefs, one of which says that if you plant figs in the bedroom, it 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, the fruit of the fig tree is sometimes called wine berries. This name figs received as a result of the fact that when ripening the fruit is 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 military leader Alexander the Great. He took dried fruits on long campaigns in order to restore strength before the upcoming battles.

Photo of figs