Many people know the name of the fig, but not everyone knows that this is not the only name for this plant. A fig tree, a fig tree, a wine berry, a fig or just a fig - this is the variety of names this culture has.

It is no coincidence that figs were nicknamed the wine berry. The fact is that figs, ripening on a branch, under the influence of the sun begin to ferment and turn into real wine.

Figs are considered such an ancient plant culture that a mention of it can be found in the Bible: it was a leaf of a fig tree that covered Adam and Eve, who were expelled from paradise, and Christ, not finding fruit on it, cursed. And now we are happy to use these juicy and sweet fruits, which, by the way, are a culinary delicacy. It should be noted that fresh figs are quite perishable. Therefore, many people prefer to enjoy the delicate taste of dried figs, which have absorbed all the energy of sunlight.

Composition

Figs are useful in any form: as dried fruit, canned and fresh. At the same time, many are interested in the question of whether dried figs lose their beneficial properties. The answer is that it does not lose, but it differs from fresh fruits in the content of sugars - in fresh fruits, the sugar content is about 24%, and in dried fruits - about 37%.

The benefits of figs are given by its amazing chemical composition - pectin, vitamins, organic acids. Fig fruits contain such important minerals for the body as calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium.

12 health benefits of figs

Fig fruits have not only bright taste, but also have medicinal properties. And if you know what the benefits and harms of figs are, you can use this product with maximum health benefits.

The healthiness of figs is, of course, determined by the presence of a rich vitamin and mineral complex. The daily consumption of several figs will allow you to forget forever about the deficiency in the body of a whole list of nutrients. Therefore, figs are especially beneficial for children and people with reduced immunity.

Regular consumption of figs will have a beneficial effect on the functioning of organs and systems of the human body.

A large amount of magnesium and potassium makes figs able to normalize heart function by maintaining normal blood pressure, lowering blood clotting, and reducing the risk of thrombosis and tachycardia. Thanks to the substances ficin and pectin, which are part of figs, the blood is thinned, the resorption of cholesterol plaques is faster, and, therefore, the risks of developing a heart attack and stroke are reduced.

1. Improving the functioning of the digestive system.

Dried figs have expectorant properties, which are used in the treatment of diseases such as bronchial asthma, cough, tonsillitis, pneumonia, whooping cough. Only use figs in this case is more effective in the form of gruel with warm milk.

The substance coumarin, contained in figs, is capable of developing cancer of the prostate, breast and colon. And benzaldehyde, which is also found in figs, completely blocks the development of tumor cells.

2. Anti stress properties.

   Tryptophan and other organic acids of figs help to improve mood, boost energy, and help normalize sleep.

Fresh figs have a low glycemic index, which makes it possible to use them for people suffering from mild diabetes mellitus. A decoction of fig leaves will help reduce the level of insulin in the blood.

Fig juice helps to cope with abscesses, acne, and all kinds of wounds that it literally sticks together.

Thanks to the presence of coumarin and furocoumarin in figs, painful symptoms during menstruation will disappear. At the same time, three fruits of figs a day will restore strength and the amount of nutrients in a woman's body that she needs so much during this period. Figs are also useful during pregnancy, firstly, with a unique set of vitamins and minerals that are so necessary for the development of the unborn baby. Secondly, the use of figs will save you from the occurrence of frequent phenomena during pregnancy - constipation and increased gas production. Thirdly, the fruits of figs are an excellent prophylaxis in the fight against anemia due to the iron contained in their composition.

Due to the high amount of dietary fiber found in figs, this fruit can be consumed during a diet.

3. Influence on the work of the musculoskeletal system.

4. Prevention of age-related macular degeneration.

   Numerous studies show that eating three or more figs a day can help reduce the risk of vision problems in older people.

5. Prevention of problems with potency in men.

   In the east, for many centuries, the fruits of figs have been used to increase male sexual strength, figs will also help in the fight against prostatitis, one has only to pour boiling water over the fruits and consume the broth daily.

Not only fruits, but also fig leaves have found application in medicine, they are the main raw material for the production of the drug "Psoberan", which is effective in the treatment of baldness and vitiligo.

Many will be surprised by the fact that in pharmacies you can buy fig syrup, which also has a whole list of medicinal properties:

• improves appetite and digestion;
• relieves spasms of muscle rheumatism;
• improves skin condition;
• helps with colds of female genital organs.

Thus, the benefits of figs in the treatment of certain diseases are simply invaluable. Possessing a pronounced antipyretic, diuretic, diaphoretic, laxative, anti-inflammatory effect, fig fruits force every cell of our body to work in a new way and more efficiently.

Contraindications

In addition to the undoubted benefits, the fruits of figs can cause some harm to health. Therefore, before using them, you should familiarize yourself with the contraindications.

• figs, especially dried ones, will be harmful in severe forms of diabetes mellitus;
• having a tendency to gout, you should not eat figs, due to the presence of a large amount of oxalic acid.
• dried figs can provoke an exacerbation of pancreatitis, gastritis, ulcers, so you should not use it for various inflammations of the digestive system.
• Sugary figs, eaten in large quantities, can lead to weight gain and ultimately obesity.
• in the presence of kidney or gallbladder stones, you should not eat figs due to the high content of oxalates, which will only exacerbate the course of the disease.

Caution is advised to eat figs while breastfeeding, since the laxative effect of the fruit can provoke diarrhea in the baby.

It is worthwhile to use dried figs with caution in case of bronchial asthma, since the fruit is very often treated with sulfites and sulfur dioxide, which increases the shelf life of the product, but can provoke diseases of the respiratory system.

Eating too many figs can cause:

• diarrhea;
• caries;
• allergies.

It is also worth giving up eating figs on the eve of the operation. This is because the fruit tends to thin the blood, which can cause bleeding.

There are many legends around figs. For example, the famous botanist Theophrastus in ancient times, even before the onset of our era, described hundreds of varieties of figs, and the most fragrant fruits were given their own names. And Cleopatra was so fond of fig fruits that even in the last minutes of her life she wanted to enjoy its taste, ordering to bring a snake in a basket with these fruits.

Figs - benefits and harms to the human body

Nutritional value, composition and calorie content of figs

Figs grow on a fig tree ( Ficus carica), which is a subtropical deciduous plant of the Ficus genus of the Mulberry family. Originally native to Western Asia and the Middle East, they are now grown in temperate climates around the world.

Figs can be consumed either fresh or dried, which affects the nutritional value of the fruit. Thus, 100 grams of fresh (raw) figs contain (in% of the recommended daily intake) ():

• Caloric content: 74 kcal (4%).
• Carbohydrates: 19.2 g (6%)
• Fiber: 2.9 g (12% DV)
• Fat: 0.3 g (0%).
• Protein: 0.7 g (1%).
• : 142 IU (3%)
• : 2 mg (3%).
• Vitamin K: 4.7 mcg (6% DV)
• Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg (6%).
• Thiamine: 0.1 mg (4%).
• Riboflavin: 0.1 mg (3%).
• Pantothenic Acid: 0.3 mg (3%).
• Calcium: 35 mg (4% DV)
• Magnesium: 17 mg (4% DV)
• Potassium: 232 mg (7% DV)
• Copper: 0.1 mg (4%).
• Manganese: 0.1 mg (6%)
• : 144 mg.

When dried, the beneficial properties of figs are enhanced. 100 grams of dried figs contain (in% of the recommended daily intake) ():

• Caloric content: 249 kcal (12%).
• Carbohydrates: 63.9 g (21%)
• Fiber: 9.8 g (39% DV)
• Fat: 0.9 g (1%).
• Protein: 3.3 g (7%).
• Vitamin K: 15.6 mcg (19% DV)
• Thiamine: 0.1 mg (6%).
• Riboflavin: 0.1 mg (5%).
• Niacin: 0.6 mg (3%)
• Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg (5%).
• Pantothenic Acid: 0.4 mg (4%).
• Calcium: 162 mg (16% DV)
• Iron: 2 mg (11% DV)
• Magnesium: 68 mg (17% DV)
• Phosphorus: 67 mg (7%).
• Potassium: 680 mg (19% DV)
• Zinc: 0.5 mg (4%).
• Copper: 0.3 mg (14% DV)
• Manganese: 0.5 mg (26% DV)
• Omega-6 fatty acids: 345 mg

The benefits of figs for the human body

Figs contain many vitamins and minerals that are essential for the health of various body systems. This fruit is a healthy light snack and can be added to many meals to increase the amount of nutrients.

So, what is the use of figs for the human body? Some of the most important health benefits of figs include:

1. Powerful antioxidant

Figs provide the body with plenty of antioxidants. Because oxidation affects nearly every system in the body, the damage it causes is associated with many major diseases, aging and cancer. Since figs are highly antioxidant foods, eating them helps prevent these conditions and diseases ().

Some figs contain more nutrients than others, but most are rich in polyphenols that help fight oxidative stress (,). These natural nutrients are found in fruit pulp, peel and leaves ().

Research also shows that properly dried figs can be an even better source of phenolic compounds and have higher levels of antioxidant activity than fresh fruits or improperly dried counterparts ().

This is probably why figs have been revered throughout history. Easily stored dried figs have long come in handy on long journeys and dry climates that hindered access to fresh fruit.

2. Anticancer agent

Figs have a reputation in traditional medicine as a remedy for many health problems, including as a natural cancer cure. For example, a study by Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry at the Chinese University of Pharmacy, shows that some of the compounds in figs are toxic to various human cancer cell lines ().

Despite the already obtained data on the anticancer properties of figs, scientists need to collect more evidence and understand the mechanism of action of the biologically active compounds present in this fruit, conducting larger studies ().

3. Treats common diseases

For thousands of years, figs have been used to treat a wide range of common diseases. More than 40 diseases related to the digestive, endocrine, reproductive and respiratory systems have been treated with fig fruits, extracts and some parts of the fig tree.

Research has shown that figs are good for treating anemia, cancer, diabetes, leprosy, liver disease, paralysis, skin diseases, ulcers, gastrointestinal tract infections, urinary tract infections, etc. ().

Figs and fig trees are considered promising candidates to help develop new drugs. Researchers continue to search for new medicinal uses of figs.

4. Antibacterial and antifungal properties

Figs can act as a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. In the review Drug and Herbal Research Center at the University of Kebangsaan in Malaysia, two studies were reported that demonstrated the ability of a plant extract from figs to fight oral bacteria, as well as various fungi and microbes ().

There are also studies that show a pronounced ability of figs to stimulate the response of the immune system, thanks to which the body is much more efficiently able to resist various infectious diseases ().

5. Good source of potassium, fiber and other important nutrients

The fig fruit has also been shown to have potent antidiabetic properties. With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, figs are able to normalize many bodily functions sometimes damaged by diabetes, making them a potential natural remedy for diabetes ().

2. Help treat skin cancer

Fig leaves are a great source of bioactive compounds that are great for fighting free radical damage ().

As a result, some studies have used information on the composition of fig leaves to develop better forms of photodynamic therapy to treat certain types of skin cancer ().

3. Elimination and reduction of skin wrinkles

There have been several studies using fig leaf extract (combined with other fruits and alone) that have shown successful examples of anti-wrinkle capabilities. The use of creams, including extracts from fig leaves and fruits, contributed to a significant reduction in the length and depth of facial wrinkles due to antioxidant and anti-collagenase activity ().

Another study published in the journal Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences has even shown that creams containing fig extract can also be used to treat skin hyperpigmentation, acne and acne, and even freckles ().

The harm of figs to the human body

Why is figs harmful if they have so many beneficial properties? People with allergies to mulberries, natural rubber latex, or ficus may have a potential reaction to the components of fig fruits and leaves. If you are picking fruit directly from the tree, it is best to wear long sleeves and gloves.

People with diabetes should be careful when consuming figs and taking medications based on figs, as they affect blood glucose levels. This also applies to those on diabetes medications and insulin, as figs can alter their effectiveness. As always, talk to your doctor before using figs for medicinal purposes or as a supplement.

The fig fruit actually develops from a structure within which the single-seeded fruits and flowers are located - this structure is called the syconium. Fig pulp is made from mature flowers that bloom under the skin of the fruit and are therefore never visible. Wild fig trees (fig trees) can live up to 100 years and can grow up to 30 meters in height.

Fig trees give off a pleasant, woody scent. Some people dry the leaves and use them in perfumes or aromatic blends for their homes. Fig trees produce natural latex sap that is also used for a variety of practical and medicinal purposes.

Figs were so popular among the Greeks that laws were even enacted to prevent exports. These fruits are an important part of the Mediterranean diet, which is one of the healthiest diets in the world. In addition to being an incredible source of dietary fiber, figs are delicious and rich in many important vitamins and minerals.

Figs have a rich history. Dating back to 5000 BC, figs are considered to be one of the first plants ever cultivated by humans. Archaeological excavations in Neolithic villages have uncovered fig fossils that predate other well-known agricultural crops such as wheat and.

Figs are often mentioned in the Bible because they were cultivated in many areas of the world where biblical events took place. In fact, some believe that in the story of Adam and Eve, the forbidden fruit may actually be a fig instead of an apple. These fruits are sometimes presented as a sign of peace, abundance and prosperity.

Figs are known for their sweet and juicy pulp, delicate skin and crunchy seeds. The fruits are very perishable and are usually dried for long-term storage. And, unlike many other fruits and vegetables, research has shown that the health benefits of figs actually increase after drying. The fruit can be prepared in several ways and is great with meat and cheese.

How to buy and cook figs

Figs can be found in most major grocery stores and markets. Harvesting takes place from mid-June to mid-October, and ripe figs must be sold within 7-10 days of being harvested.

Look for figs that are rich in color and slightly soft, but not strong. After you bring the fruit home, it is recommended to store it in a small bowl in the refrigerator (

In nature, there are a large number of fruits useful for the human body, which act as natural preventive and therapeutic tools for various diseases. One such plant is the fig tree, which grows berries called figs or figs. There are other names that are common among the people and in some remote regions, for example, wine berry and fig. The fruit, which will be discussed in this article, grows mainly in countries with arid climates. Fig has a pleasant sweet taste that pleases both adults and children.

Composition and calorie content of figs

Fig is an extremely valuable fruit with a number of beneficial properties for the body. The component composition of the described berry contains a large number of substances, thanks to which the fig acquires its healing properties. It should be noted that the wine berry has a low calorie content, which is approximately equal to 49 kilocalories contained in 100 grams of the product.

In the composition of the fruit of the fig tree, there is a huge amount of dietary fiber valuable for humans, plant acids, vitamins, macro- and microelements, as well as antioxidants. As for the vitamin complex, in the composition of figs you can find substances of the following groups: A, B, C. Wine berry is also rich in such elements as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, copper and iron.

Benefits of Fresh and Dried Figs

As described in the previous point, the composition of figs is extremely rich in nutrients, which makes the product valuable in terms of treating various ailments. It should be noted that the herbal remedy has been used for the treatment of colds since ancient times, since figs have diaphoretic and antipyretic properties. At the same time, due to a wide range of properties, the fruit is used for a wide variety of purposes to this day, which is described in detail below.

What is useful for women

According to the teachings of oriental medicine, figs should be one of the components of a woman's diet at any age. The product has a positive effect on the reproductive system of the girl, and also has a pronounced cosmetic effect, both with external and internal use of the berry. In this regard, the fig is successfully used not only for the treatment of many disorders in the work of the female body, but also for their early prevention.

The product is effective for maintaining the female body during menstruation, since figs have antispasmodic and analgesic properties. And since the herbal product contains a lot of folic acid, doctors recommend taking it for pregnant women, as well as those girls who plan to become pregnant in the near future. It is also important for the majority of the fairer sex that the fig is a regenerative product that provides “eternal youth”. If you systematically eat a berry and make masks from it, you can tighten the skin, saturate it with the necessary substances, and also smooth out wrinkles.

For men

It is important to note that figs are also important for the male body, since this product has a number of properties that ensure the adequate functioning of the main systems in the body. So, for example, experts say that the wine berry has a positive effect on the reproductive function of men, increasing the activity of sperm. At the same time, figs are a preventive component that prevents the loss of male strength, as well as a number of ailments that affect the genitourinary system. Due to the fact that the berry has anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties, it is successfully used in the case of infectious diseases, including those of a fungal nature.

For immunity

As you know, a person with strong immunity is not susceptible to the pathogenic influence of the environment, as a result of which he does not get sick. For this reason, it is extremely important to pay attention to the immune system in a timely manner, having carried out the prevention of most of the known diseases. Figs successfully act as such a preventive product, possessing not only effective properties, but also a pleasant taste.

Figs contain a lot of vitamin C, which increases the protective potential of the body, helping it to successfully cope with attacking viruses and bacteria. It is especially useful to eat a wine berry for people who, due to activity or any other circumstances, are exposed to great physical and intellectual stress. The described herbal remedy provides a burst of energy and increases productivity.

Which figs are healthier - light or dark?

Figs are found in nature in various varieties, as a result of which they can have a color from dark purple, almost black, to pale yellow and white. However, when it comes to the tone of the berry, it usually means dried and fresh fruit. Dark is a fresh fig, it contains a large amount of water, up to 82.5 percent, and light, on the contrary, is a product that has gone through the process of dehydration, that is, devoid of moisture, it is dry.

It doesn't matter at all the fruit is used fresh or dried, since all the necessary nutritional components and vitamins remain in the berry. The drying process is carried out in special dryers under the influence of moderately warm air.

What does he treat for?

The fruit of the fig tree has been used as a remedy for various ailments since antiquity. According to historical reports, in eastern countries, figs were dried in the sun, and then infusions, decoctions were prepared from it, and also consumed raw. Today the tradition has been preserved and the described berry is successfully used for various purposes in the form of a medicinal product.

The herbal instrument is a valuable remedy for the treatment of disorders of the stomach, liver and the entire digestive tract. Thus, doctors advise taking a dried preparation in its raw form for pancreatitis, gastric ulcer, intestinal obstruction. In addition, it should be noted that due to the low sugar content in figs, it can be taken by diabetics and people who are on a diet.

Since the wine berry has medicinal properties that allow the therapy of cardiovascular diseases, it is advised to eat it in small quantities every day for people suffering from arrhythmias. In case of malfunction or pathology of the thyroid gland, it is also recommended to take dried fig fruit in any form.

Figs are widely used in cosmetology, where a variety of masks for facial skin care are produced on its basis. Such drugs allow you to get rid of acne and some dermatological diseases associated with a violation of the pigmentation of the integument, for example, vitiligo.

Fig recipes

Today, there are a lot of fig-based medicines that are easy to prepare at home. The uniqueness of this particular product lies in the fact that it does not lose its healing properties at all, even when dried. For this reason, the creation of decoctions, infusions and other options for the preparation of a therapeutic agent is not difficult for anyone. And given the fact that the plant component has a variety of positive properties for the body, the product is successfully used to treat all kinds of ailments.

Medicinal jam

The recipe for jam from figs is not very different from recipes for jam from other fruits and berries. However, only a fig has so many useful components for the body and has a unique taste and aroma. First, you need to thoroughly rinse the berries under water and cut off the tops from them, and then pour them into a saucepan in a volume of one kilogram. On top of the fruit, you will need to fall asleep with 1 kilogram of sugar and pour 2 tablespoons of water.

The resulting mixture must be put on fire and brought to a boil, then boil for 5 minutes. Now you need the future jam to cool down, after which you need to put it on the fire again, wait for it to boil, cook for 5 minutes, turn it off and cool. Such procedures should be repeated up to 5 times, after which you can enjoy the wonderful taste of the medicinal jam.

How to cook figs with milk for coughs and colds

Milk broth with figs is the best remedy for the throat during the period of sore throat and any other colds. With the help of a specific remedy, bronchitis of any form is successfully treated. In order to prepare the preparation, you will need to cut the fig tree fruits, which are initially washed out, into small pieces. The crushed product is mixed with hot milk in the proportion of 2-3 berries per 200 milliliters of milk.

After combining both components, the composition must be sent to low heat, brought to a boil and cooked under a lid for 2 minutes. At the end of the allotted time, remove the pan from the heat, wrap it in a towel so that the broth does not cool down for as long as possible, and leave it for an hour. Now the resulting fig milk must be filtered and taken half a glass three times a day. If you are worried about a dry cough, then you can take the prepared medicine with honey, which will increase the productivity of the cough.

Recipe with dried apricots and prunes for the spine

This recipe is quite popular among professional athletes who use the described mixture for the treatment and prevention of spinal injuries. A specific product allows you to strengthen the intervertebral tissues, to bring the muscle corset that supports the spinal column to tone, as well as to qualitatively improve the condition of the vertebral discs. For this reason, this mixture for the treatment of the back is widely used by the people, having a high degree of effectiveness.

To prepare the drug, it is required to kill prunes, dried apricots and figs in equal proportions in a blender. You can add a little honey to the resulting mass, and then take the product daily before bedtime, 3 tablespoons for a month.

Potency remedy

According to numerous studies, it has been found that dried fig tree fruit is one of the most effective means for improving erectile function in men. In addition, figs are a natural aphrodisiac that stimulates libido and improves the quality of sexual activity in men. Experts recommend that men eat one dried pure fig tree every day.

Constipation recipe

It is known that the wine berry has laxative properties, for this reason it is used as one of the tools in the fight against constipation. In order to maximize the effectiveness, you can make special sweets from dried fruits. To do this, boil prunes and figs in equal proportions, then knead them, mold balls and sprinkle with a small amount of coriander on top. If it becomes necessary to eat 5 sweets during the day, you can also use the dish as a preventive measure.

To restore joints

There are recipes for medicinal products based on the described berry, which can strengthen the joints and normalize their nutrition. In this case, it will be useful to eat salad for breakfast, in which it is necessary to include such components as:

• prunes 150 grams;
• figs 300 grams;
• a glass of acidophilus fermented milk product;
• almonds in the amount of 2.5 tablespoons;
• grated orange peel;
• sugar.

Figs and apple cider vinegar for weight loss

There is a rather specific recipe for a remedy that, according to some sources, can speed up the process of losing weight. This will require 3 figs, which must be pierced with a toothpick and placed in a container. Then add 200 milliliters of apple cider vinegar to the languishing fruits, close the container with a lid and leave for a day. Cooked berries must be eaten in the morning, after squeezing them out of excess liquid.

Another effective recipe for losing weight: figs, dried apricots, prunes, raisins and honey. All ingredients must be crushed to a gruel and filled with hay water. promotes rapid weight loss.

Potential harm from eating fruits

Despite the numerous medicinal properties for the body, figs can in some cases be hazardous to health. Basically, side effects from eating berries are expressed in the form of an upset stomach and an allergic reaction, which manifests itself in different ways in each individual situation.

Contraindications

It has the described natural component and contraindications, in connection with which it is necessary to abandon its use for: severe inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract, gout, increased stomach acidity, poor blood clotting, low blood pressure, allergies, etc.

Video: what figs help from and how to eat it

A specific video is a well-known TV show, which is dedicated to such a fruit as a fig, as well as its beneficial properties for the body. The presenters of the video describe in detail the specifics of the effect of the berry on the body, the duration of its storage, methods of use, the main indications and contraindications.

Fig is not a fruit at all (although it is customary to call it that), not a vegetable, not even a berry! The unique plant represents inflorescences that are practically not stored for a long time, therefore, dried inflorescences are most often found in Russia.

But even so, the benefits and harm to the body of figs remain 100%. Possessing a specific taste, these fruits require careful treatment from the point of view of cooking.

They taste sweet, sugar, a little honey. There are no specific vitamins or minerals in the composition that could be isolated in a special concentration, such as rich in folic acid in a special form.

The history of the sweet berry

Fig fruits grow on a fig tree. According to legend, it was the leaves of this tree that Adam and Eve used to create clothes. The plant is considered one of the oldest in the world, and its homeland is Asia Minor. The ancient Greeks used figs.

The tree lives for 200 years, all this time the plant gives a wonderful harvest. The main suppliers are Greece, Turkey and Iran.

Useful properties of different types

The benefits and harms of figs for the body are almost the same for dried and fresh species. Both of them have a good effect on the digestive system due to the high content of fibers, pectins. Gallic acid, which is part of the fruit, has a good antiseptic effect, so they are recommended in small quantities after poisoning.

The same can be said for a fig for the heart. Here it can even be a little envious, since the fig tree berry contains a huge amount of potassium. The same mineral. It should be noted that the benefits of dried figs for the heart will be slightly higher, since phenol is formed inside, fatty acids that protect against heart disease, atherosclerosis. The action of the fresh is as follows:

• lowers cholesterol levels;
• stimulates the excretion of sweat, bile, perfect for the treatment of colds;
• contains a lot of calcium, which is good for teeth and skeleton;
• lowers sugar levels in diabetes;
• destroys fungi;
• improves the condition of the vocal cords and tonsils.

This is why dried figs are useful: increases sexual stamina, helps with bronchitis and asthma, is used to gargle with sore throat (similar to the effect of a fresh product). Both types have beneficial properties for immunity, blood health, and preventing the formation of cancer cells due to the colossal amount of antioxidants in the composition.

What diseases is it used for?

The wine berry, like the feijoa fruit, has tremendous benefits in the treatment of various acute respiratory viral infections. It copes well with high fever and infections, even treats diseases such as tonsillitis and bronchitis. Inflorescences are included in the diet for tuberculosis. Used in dietary nutrition for other diseases:

• any inflammation of the oral cavity;
• hypertension;
• kidney and stomach diseases;
• almost all vascular diseases;
• high blood viscosity;
• constipation;
• anemia and liver disease.

With diabetes, there are restrictions on the use of fresh wine berries, and dried is strictly prohibited.

Harm and contraindications

The fruits of the fig tree have contraindications for use:

• tendency to gout;
• disturbances in the metabolism of oxalic acid;
• inflammatory diseases of the digestive system;
• diseases of the pancreas;
• pancreatitis;
• stomach ulcer and gastritis.

With urolithiasis, you need to eat only a few pieces per week, no more. You should not get carried away with them even in normal health, since uncontrolled use can lead to unexpected reactions from the gastrointestinal tract.

How to choose and store correctly?

If all the useful properties for the body of figs are taken into account, you can start choosing the right sweets. This is easy to do. Fresh inflorescences have an even appearance, they should not have rotten or wrinkled sides, and the fresh product smells like fruit. If there is a sour smell of fermentation, you should refuse to eat, since the wine berry thus begins to rot.

Since dried wine berries are most often found on the market, you need to be able to choose them as well. There should be no plaque on the inflorescences, and if, in this regard, on the contrary, it implies the presence of a whitish bloom on the correct fruits, then the fruit with such a coating is old and tasteless. The skin is not bright, yellowish or light brown.

You can only store fresh figs for 3 days in the refrigerator:

• after purchase, it is washed and dried well;
• wrapped in a napkin and placed in a glass container;
• the vessel is removed to the refrigerator.

The paper will absorb all the moisture and keep the fruit's health benefits and freshness longer.

Dried figs can be stored well in a dark place at low temperatures for six months. In markets and shops, the fig flower is most often sold in boxes or baskets, but you can also find it in the form of beads - the fig is strung on a string. Some housewives prefer this type, considering it the most delicious.

But fig fruit should not be stored next to spices and strong-smelling substances.

How to eat correctly?

Not everyone knows how to eat fresh figs correctly, because they have a very specific taste. The candied dry product is pre-soaked in water for 2-3 hours, but some people simply rinse and eat in this form.

Delicious jam is prepared from sweets, but vitamins in it, as well as coarse fibers, become much less. A great option is to eat fresh fruit with various cheeses. It is cut into quarters and placed along with grapes, nuts, next to cheeses. The fruit perfectly interrupts the taste of cheese and allows you to take pleasant breaks between the use of a particular type of dairy product.

Slimming with figs

The calorie content of fresh fruit does not exceed 40-45 kcal per 100 g, but dried fruit has an indicator of 200-230 kcal for a similar volume. For weight loss, it is enough to include 2-3 inflorescences in the diet daily, you can mix sweetness with cottage cheese or yogurt, add to baked goods, make delicious mashed potatoes, etc.

Health recipes

From fragrant inflorescences, you can prepare not only delicious recipes for the daily menu, but also real healing potions that will help you quickly get rid of fever, sore throat, and cough. For example, here is a recipe for making figs with cough milk:

• milk 3.2%;
• fig - 6 pieces for 2 glasses of liquid.

The recipe will help not only remove cough, but also improve the condition of the vocal cords. The recipe is especially useful for singers during cold weather.

After the inflorescences are well washed, they are cut into halves, the flesh is peeled, put into milk and put on medium heat. As soon as the milk boils, cover the saucepan, wrap it in a warm towel. The broth should be infused for about an hour. You need to drink all the contents in one day.

If they don't like drinking at all, then they can just gargle. For this, dried fruits are poured with boiled milk for 40 minutes.

Sweet fruit salad

Delicate berries go well with tofu! At the same time, the beneficial and harmful properties of figs for the body are ideally balanced. Fresh inflorescences are finely chopped, mixed with cheese, cut into cubes. Everything is laid out on a plate, sprinkled with red pepper. You can decorate the dish with mint leaves or lemon basil.

Candy with wine berry

It is easy to make delicious, healthy sugar-free candies from dried sweet berries. To do this, take about 0.25 kg of inflorescences, 100 g of dark chocolate. Optionally add walnuts or almonds, a spoonful of cocoa powder.

Soak dry berries for a short time in hot liquid. Then it is dried, and the chocolate is finely rubbed, heated in a water bath. If you feel like it, you can season the liquid mixture with a spoonful of butter.

Cut crosswise, stuffed with ground walnuts. Then the candies are shaped like standard truffles, dipped in melted chocolate, and laid out on a wire rack. Then each candy must be rolled in cocoa powder and placed in the refrigerator for several hours.

The cost of figs is quite high, but given that it is better not to eat more than 3-4 pieces per day, then 1 kg will be enough for a long time. Adding a product to the correct diet is simply necessary for those who switched from harmful sweets to dried fruits and nuts, because fig tree inflorescences can completely replace harmful sugar!

Figs are a very ancient culture. He also has other names: "fig, fig", "wine berry". It is customary to dry its fruits, since fresh ones are not stored for long. However, not everyone wondered whether the medicinal properties of the product are preserved and what is the difference between them.

What are figs made of?

The composition of the berry depends on the stage of maturity and climatic conditions of growth. Fresh fruits are rich in nutrients, including vitamins:

• pyridoxine(AT 6);
• pantothenic acid(AT 5);
• retinol (A);
• beta carotene;
• folic acid (B9);
• thiamine (B1);
• riboflavin (B2);
• niacin equivalent (PP);
• ascorbic acid (C).

Most figs contain vitamins(0.13 mg) and (4 mg). Lack of ascorbic acid in the body leads to fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, and frequent colds. Deficiency of pantothenic acid results in blurred vision, insomnia, depression, hair loss, weakness and low blood pressure.

Figs contain the following elements:

• iron(3.2 mg);
• potassium(190 mg);
• magnesium (17 mg);
• calcium (35 mg);
• phosphorus (14 mg);
• sodium (18 mg).

Great content potassium makes the berry an indispensable tool for high blood pressure and allergies. This macronutrient is essential for the cardiovascular system, it stimulates thought processes and is essential for the normal functioning of muscles.

Calorie content of fresh figs leaves 55 kcal. Carbohydrates - 12 g. Protein contains 0.7 g, fat - 0.2 g.

Dried fruits in calories much more - 255 kcal.
Fresh figs rich in vitamins and minerals such as: vitamin B5 - 8% ( 100 g of the daily allowance); vitamin B6 - 6.5%; potassium - 7.5%, magnesium - 4.2%; calcium - 3.5%, iron - up to 18%, a lot of dietary fiber - 12.5%.

Dried figs rich in such vitamins and minerals: vitamin B1 and B2 5% each (from the daily requirement of 100 g of product); vitamin PP - 6%; potassium - 28.5%; magnesium - 15%; calcium - 14.5%; phosphorus - 8.5%. A lot of dietary fiber - 90%.

How many figs can you eat per day

• Norm fresh figs for an adult it is considered 5-10 berries per day (50 - 100 g).
• The rate of dried figs is less: 3 - 5 berries per day (30 - 50 g)

The norm of dried figs is less, since it increases the vitamin and nutritional composition, and also increases the calorie content and the amount of carbohydrates.

Differences between fresh and dried figs

The fruits of this tree can most often be seen in dried form, since fresh ones cannot be stored for a long time. They do not lose their medicinal properties, on the contrary, they acquire new ones. In dried fruits, the amount of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and dietary fiber increases, but the content of vitamins B5, B6, B9, C decreases.

It should be borne in mind that in the process of drying fruits, the amount of sugar in them increases. So, the calorie content of 100 g of the product increases to 257 kcal, and the amount of carbohydrates increases to 60 g (in 100 g of product)... The plaque that forms on dried berries contains glucose, fructose, lysine and many other substances and acids important for the body. Such figs are less finicky and can be stored for a long time.

In more detail, the differences in the composition of fresh fruits from dried in the tables:

Beneficial features

The product has a number of medicinal properties:

• useful for the cardiovascular system;
• is a prophylactic agent against strokes and heart attacks;
• restores strength;
• accelerates the process of cell regeneration;
• removes harmful substances from the body;
• has diuretic and laxative effects;
• thins the blood;
• stimulates intestinal motility;
• lowers body temperature;
• relieves pain;
• normalizes the processes of the nervous system;
• improves mood;
• has anti-inflammatory effect;
• stops hair loss;
• makes nails stronger;
• helps to recover from illness;
• fights emotional outbursts during PMS;
• strengthens erectile function in men.

Fig fruit juice is used to treat skin pathologies and fungus. Figs are actively used in cosmetology and perfumery. Its extract is found in body and face products.

So, figs are useful for: cardiovascular system due to the content in fruits potassium; for the prevention and treatment of oncology due to the content in figs benzaldehyde(a substance that prevents the growth of cancer cells. Contains antioxidants(have anti-inflammatory properties) and alimentary fiber(have a beneficial effect on the digestive system).

Indications

The unique composition of the wine berry makes it valuable for people suffering from the following diseases:

• atherosclerosis;
• hypertension;
• thrombophlebitis;
• varicose veins;
• bronchitis;
• tracheitis;
• anemia;
• depression;
• prostatitis;
• tachycardia;
• angina;
• stress;
• stomatitis;
• disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
• inflammation of the genitourinary organs;
• whooping cough;
• wounds and burns.

Fruit gruel is used as a wound healing agent. A slice of fresh or dry figs applied to the affected area can help relieve toothache and gum disease. Wine berry eliminates dry mouth, nausea. It is recommended to use it to relieve hangover.

Figs are shown for women and men with low libido. After all, the berries of this plant are considered an excellent aphrodisiac, causing passion.

Jam and preserves are made from fresh berries - which are also very useful

Who is contraindicated in figs

It is forbidden to eat fig fruits for people suffering from the following pathologies:

• pancreatitis;
• diabetes;
• gastritis;
• peptic ulcer;
• gallstones;
• obesity;
• enteritis;
• gout;
• low blood clotting.

In rare cases, individual intolerance can lead to refusal to consume figs. Despite the fact that figs are considered an excellent dietary product, too many fruits should not be consumed. This can backfire.
Due to the high content of calories and dietary fiber, especially in dried figs, the fruit can harm people with urolithiasis, as well as people with exacerbations of gastrointestinal diseases.

The benefits of figs for the human body

Figs are of particular benefit to the respiratory system; heart and blood vessels, digestive system.

Respiratory system

For colds and coughs, it is necessary to prepare a decoction in milk. The therapeutic course is 2 weeks. This medicine eliminates coughing attacks, relieves fever and increases the resistance of the immune system to infectious diseases.

1. You should take 300 ml of high-quality cow's milk (preferably fat) and heat it up in an enamel bowl.
2. Place 4 medium figs in a saucepan with milk and bring to a boil. Both fresh and dry fruits are used.
3. Then you need to cover the pan with a lid and keep the composition for half an hour over low heat. In this case, the volume of the liquid will decrease by three times.
4. Next, the dishes are wrapped and left to cool completely. After 3-4 hours, the broth is ready.
5. They drink it in the morning, at lunchtime and in the evening for half a glass before eating.
6. Store the medicine in a closed jar in the refrigerator. Every day you need to prepare a new broth.

This broth softens the throat and relieves coughs for bronchitis, tracheitis and colds.

The cardiovascular system

The minerals (magnesium, potassium) that make up figs are the building blocks of muscle tissue. They support heart function and eliminate many pathologies associated with the functioning of blood vessels. Ficin allows you to thin the blood, lowers the level of bad cholesterol, and reduces the risk of blood clots.

To strengthen the cardiovascular system, it is advised to drink wine infusion.

It is prepared and taken as follows:

1. It is necessary to pour 50 g of dried fruits with a glass of warm water.
2. After 6 hours, the berries will give all their nutrients to the liquid.
3. This infusion should be drunk during the day in small portions before meals.
4. The course of treatment is 10-12 days. Berries can not be thrown away, but eaten.

Such a medicine will reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis, thrombosis and tachycardia.

Treatment of gastrointestinal diseases with figs

The fruits, especially when dried, are very beneficial for the functioning of the digestive organs. In case of poisoning, thanks to the enzymes present in it, the fig removes poisons and toxins from the body, restores the intestinal microflora. The high content of dietary fiber allows the use of fruits to eliminate constipation and improve bowel function.

With intestinal atony you can use the following recipe.

You need to collect:

• fig fruits - 200 g;
• prunes - 400 g;
• dried apricot - 100 g;
• raisins - 100 g;
• rosehip extract - 100 ml;
• honey - 200 g;
• senna herb - 50 g.

How to prepare and take:

Grind the first four ingredients in a meat grinder, add honey and rose hips, as well as chopped senna herb. Then place the mixture in a container and keep in the refrigerator. Take one spoonful in the morning before breakfast and in the evening before bedtime.

Figs are also used for gastritis... Once in the stomach, it envelops the mucous membrane, protecting it from the irritating effects of incoming food. This makes it possible to reduce the intensity of the inflammatory process taking place inside, and even achieve significant success in the health of the organ.

Figs for diseases of the liver and gallbladder

Figs are an excellent hematopoietic agent. Therefore, its use is appropriate for liver diseases. To improve liver function, traditional medicine advises to consume fig milk. It should be prepared in this way. Insist or boil a little 50 grams of figs in a glass of hot milk for at least five hours. When everything is cool, grind in a blender and drink.

With dyskinesia of the bile ducts, stone formation in them, cholecystitis, the following treatment is applied.

You need to prepare a mixture of these components:

• figs -1.2 kg;
• lemons - 0.5 kg;
• granulated sugar - 0.5 kg;
• honey - 7st. spoons.

Prepare and take like this:

Peel the lemons and grind together with the peel in a meat grinder. Process figs in the same way. Mix all ingredients. Take the medicine before meals for 2-4 tbsp. spoons.

Benefits and harms for children and during pregnancy

If the baby is not allergic to figs, be sure to include it in the children's menu. The product improves the digestive tract and stimulates the appetite. It is an excellent source of energy, which is so necessary for a growing body. Folic acid in its composition helps to strengthen immune forces, healthy functioning of the heart and blood vessels, and the nervous system. It is enough to give your baby a few dried berries a day.

It is recommended to use figs for women in an "interesting position." At this time, it is necessary to enrich your body with useful substances for the normal functioning of the fetus. Thanks to the minerals and vitamins contained in figs, the digestion of a pregnant girl is normalized, the risk of anemia is reduced. Considering that taking medication during this period is harmful, it is possible to cure colds and coughs with the help of a fig, which does not have a negative effect on the health of the mother and the unborn baby.

If a pregnant woman has gained a lot of weight, it is advised to include only fresh berries in her menu. It is better to consult a gynecologist before use.

During breastfeeding, the product will help improve lactation. However, figs should be eaten with caution. It is necessary to monitor the well-being of the child, because he may have flatulence and colic.

Fresh figs are a great source of iron for the body

Why figs are good for men

Figs can be found on shelves throughout the year, fresh or dried. Regular consumption of small portions of fruits can have an invaluable therapeutic and prophylactic effect on the body, including a positive glycemic effect. With an excessive passion for figs, jumps in blood glucose are observed due to the high concentration of natural sugars in it.

The composition of the fruit contains elements that strengthen the reproductive health of men. These are zinc, magnesium, manganese, some amino acids. Figs help in cases where there is a weakening of libido or premature ejaculation. In addition, it takes care of the health and cleanliness of the genitourinary system, preventing bacteria and other infections from spreading in its organs, and prevents the appearance of inflammatory processes.

Figs are rich in potassium and this helps maintain the health of the heart and vascular systems in men, who suffer more from heart attacks and strokes than women. The substances contained in the fruits regulate blood pressure and prevent its values ​​from rising above normal. Pectin in the digestive tract absorbs excess cholesterol and removes it from the body.

What properties of figs are attractive to women

In ancient times, fruits were credited with anti-aging properties. And this is no coincidence. The antioxidant orientation of figs is given by vitamins C, A, E such minerals contained in it as zinc, selenium.

The fruits have found their application in cosmetology due to the cleansing and regenerating effect on the skin. On their basis, the industry produces a huge amount of cosmetics in a wide variety of directions. Fig masks for face and hair are very popular. They moisturize and regenerate the skin, relieve it of acne and blackheads.

Fig relieves the effects of physical and nervous stress, helps to relax, restore performance. The B vitamins and folic acid contained in fruits make figs an essential product during pregnancy and at the planning stage. The rich vitamin and mineral composition will be very useful for the unborn baby.

Just a few sweet fruits eaten per long time relieve hunger. The introduction of a small amount of figs in the diet will make it possible to lose weight much more comfortably. Conversely, eating figs in too large amounts can help you gain weight quickly. It all depends on the quantity.

Fig preparations

Fig fruits can be found in some pharmaceutical preparations. So, they are contained in a laxative Kafiol(Cafiolum), which is a plant collection of a dark brown hue. It is used for constipation of various origins. Kafiol is contraindicated in case of high sensitivity, intestinal obstruction, metrorrhagia, mesenteric artery thrombosis. It should not be used in the last trimester of pregnancy. Kafiol is applied inside 0.5-1 briquettes once or for 1-2 weeks, depending on the pathology.

There is also a sorbitol-based fig syrup on the market, the active ingredient of which is fig fruit extract. It is recommended to use it as a food additive for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, varicose veins, anemia. The dosage should be prescribed by the attending physician. Contraindications include: pregnancy, lactation, hypersensitivity.

Used successfully in traditional medicine green fig leaves... They serve as the main component for the manufacture of Psoberan, a drug that treats pigmentation disorders and alopecia areata.

Botanical description

Fig is a plant of the genus Ficus of the Mulberry family

Fig is a plant with large leaves and pear-shaped fruits on short stalks. They contain numerous small nuts. When any part of the plant is cut, milky sap will flow out of it.

The color of the fruit ranges from yellow to black and blue. Their size is comparable to that of a walnut. Fruit taste is moderately sweet.

Early varieties of figs ripen in mid-August, mid-ripening at the end of summer, and late varieties in September and October. The fig tree grows in many regions with a warm climate: Crimea, Asia, India, Turkey, Pakistan, the Caucasus.

There are many varieties of figs. With proper care, the plant grows well at home. It can produce two crops per year.

How to dry and store

The rate of dried figs - no more than 50 g per day

To dry the fruit of a wine berry, you must:

1. Rinse the figs and pat dry on paper or towel. Cutting the fruit into halves will dry out faster.
2. Place the fig on a wire rack in a sunny and well-ventilated place.
3. Close under gauze from insects.
4. After 4-6 days, the drying process is over.

You can also use an oven or home dryer.

It will not work to store freshly picked figs for a long time, after a day it will start to deteriorate. The best place to store fresh fruit is in the fruit compartment in the refrigerator. If the temperature in it does not rise above 1 degree, it will be possible to keep the product for 1-2 weeks.

It is optimal to store dried fruits at low temperature and humidity and in the absence of direct sunlight. It is best to pack them in jars or containers and place them in the refrigerator with a lid on. Care must be taken to ensure that no mold builds up on the food, so check the figs once a week. The shelf life of dried fruits is 6 months. In the refrigerating chamber, it increases up to 1 year. True, when defrosting, the figs will lose some of their beneficial qualities.

1. Figs must be fully ripe and fresh.
2. Don't eat figs that smell sour.
3. The product must be washed thoroughly before use. It is advised to remove the skin or soak the fruit so that the surface is not too hard. The water in which the berries lay can be drunk. It has beneficial substances.
4. It is best for a child to cut the fruit in half and scoop up the pulp with a small spoon.
5. Dried figs can always be bought in the store, so it is better not to store them at home, but to purchase them as needed.
6. After drying, you need to cut the fruit. If there is no juice, it is properly dried.

Figs go well with meat and vegetable dishes. It is used for stuffing poultry, added to salads. The product allows you to add variety and a spicy touch of the East to your daily diet.

Video about the benefits and dangers of figs

What are the useful properties of figs, possible harm and contraindications, how to choose the right one, store a berry, and many other interesting things in this video: