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Fig

Did you know that the deliciously sweet fig fruit is an ancient fruit that have long been enjoyed by our ancestors? Botanically, figs belong to the mulberry family (Moraceae) of the genus, Ficus. And is scientifically named Ficus carica.

Fig fruit tree is native to temperate climate of Asia Minor or Turkey at present. It is now grown as an important fruit of commerce in the eastern Mediterranean region, USA and Spain. It can also be grown as a fruit tree found in many home gardens. During each season it produces hundreds of pear shaped fruits twice a year which vary in size and color according to the variety. Some of popular varieties that are usually cultivated 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).

An average fig fruit is about 3-5 centimeters. Fig fruit can be eaten in both fresh and dried form. The fully ripe fig has bell or pear shape with succulent flesh. Because it is easily perishable, it cannot be stored for long and so it is oftentimes consumed as dried fruits. 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. Not only have the fruits had health advantages, but also the fig leaves. They are edible and have many health benefits themselves. Here are some of the benefits.

General Nutrition Info
Nutrient Name	Quantity

Vitamins Nutrition Info
Nutrient Name	Quantity

Minerals Nutrition Info
Nutrient Name	Quantity

Good Source of Calcium
Figs are one of the highest plant sources of calcium, essential for teeth and bones formation and strength.

Weight loss
Since figs have a high amount of fiber, people who are trying to shed a few pounds will find that consuming figs will help aid them in losing weight and actually follow an effective weight reducing diet.

Antioxidant
A study conducted found that eating just two medium dried figs will have a significant increase in antioxidant activity in the body. An excellent combat against free radicals that causes certain diseases and cancer.

Constipation
Consuming either fresh or dried, the fig is a good laxative agent because of its large cellulose content and its tough skin. The tiny seeds in the fruit have the property to stimulate wave like movements of intestines which facilitates smooth evacuation of feces throughout the colon and keeps the alimentary canal clean.

Asthma
Figs are regarded beneficial in the treatment of asthma. Phlegmatic cases of cough and asthma are cured effectively by their use. It gives comfort to the patient by expelling the phlegm.

Sexual Weakness
Figs can help in the treatment of sexual weakness. They can be supplemented by other dry fruits like almonds and dry dates along with butter. They have proved to be effective in such cases.

Hypertension
Deficiency of potassium or low intake of potassium-rich foods can lead to high blood pressure. Figs are a great source of potassium, a mineral in which many people are deficient. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and other important bodily functions.

Restoration
Figs are considered a restorative food which aids patients in their quick recovery after prolonged illness. It removes physical and mental stress and provides the body with renewed energy and strength.

Anti-Diabetic Properties
Studies have found that fig leaves can lower the amount of insulin required for those who are diabetics.

Lower Triglycerides
Research shows that fig leaves lower triglyceride levels. When the body makes too many triglycerides, a person is at risk for heart disease and obesity.

Bronchitis Remedy
Fig leaf tea is recommended by many to be an effective natural remedy for bronchitis and other lung ailments such as asthma.

Ulcer Remedy
A natural remedy for ulcers may be acquired by chewing and swallowing fig leaves.

Eye health
Figs are good for eyesight. They are excellent sources of vitamin A, which prevents deterioration of eyesight that occurs with age

Skin care
When baked figs are applied on the skin, it can bring reduce the inflammations such as boil and abscess. It also has anti septic and emollient properties, making it an excellent home remedy for skin care. As fresh figs have a good amount of water in it, they can serve as a good skin cleanser curing skin problems like acne and pimples. The juice of fresh figs can also cure corns.

Anemia
Figs have high iron and Folate content. This is highly beneficial for iron deficient anemic individuals, along with heavily menstruating, pregnant and lactating women. How to choose good quality figs? Look for ones that have a rich, deep color and are plump and tender, but not mushy. They should have firm stems and got no bruises. Smelling figs can help you know their freshness and taste. They should have a mildly sweet fragrance and should not smell sour, which is a clue that they may be spoiled.

Before eating or cooking figs, wash them under cool water and then gently remove the stem and wipe them dry. Dried figs can be eaten as is, or used in a recipe, or simmered for several minutes in water or fruit juice to make them plumper and juicier. They can be added in preparing oatmeal or any other whole grain breakfast porridge. You can also poach figs in juice or red wine and serve with yogurt or frozen desserts. Add cubed figs to a salad of fennel, arugula and shaved Parmesan cheese. Or stuffed fresh figs with goat cheese and chopped almonds and be served as hors d'oeuvres or desserts.

Being a good source of several important nutrients, munch on figs now for your health and general well being.