Figs are one of the oldest fruits that are being consumed by us humans. Furthermore, some scholars also believe that the fruit that was eaten by Eve was a fig, not an apple. Actually, this fruit is even the favorite fruit of Cleopatra. It isn’t just the favorite fruit of anyone because this fruit is oozing with so many health benefits. Furthermore, the health benefits of figs are wide-ranging and are uniquely amazing. To know more about it, read on to this article.
What are Figs?
Figs are the fruits of the Ficus tree. It is also a member of the Moraceae or the Mulberry family. Moreover, they also belong to the genus Ficus, and its scientific name is Ficus Carica. Figs are cultivated in some regions of the world that is why it has various names.
The fig tree is actually a deciduous tree, which may grow to approximately 7 to 10 meters high. Its bark is white and smooth. Its trees grow wild in sunny and dry areas, which have deep and fresh soil. The trees tend to grow in the rocky areas and may withstand even in soil that is less fertile.
The trees of the figs can live up to a hundred years and it has twisty and long branches, which may surpass the tree height. Actually, figs are the culmination of various single-seeded fruits and its sizes may grow to 3 to 5 centimeters. It appears green while growing and it becomes brown or purple once it gets ripe.
Its shape is oval or pear. It can be eaten raw and fresh, dried, or you can incorporate it in your recipes. Moreover, the fruit is considered to be exotic in some of the regions of the world. Its taste depends on its color.
Varieties of Figs
There are actually five (5) varieties of figs. Each of these varieties differs slightly in sweetness and flavor. Here are they:
Adriatic. This has light green color and has a pink flesh. Furthermore, this is often used in making fig bars.
Brown turkey. This has a purple skin and red flesh. Its taste or flavor ranges from mild to less sweet.
Calimyrna. It has a greenish-yellow skin and amber flesh. Moreover, it is larger than the other varieties of figs.
Kadota. This fig variety is green in color and has a purple flesh. Moreover, it is the least sweet among the fig varieties.
Black mission. This variety of figs are blackish-purple in color outside and has a pink flesh. Its taste is incredibly sweet and it even oozes out its syrup.
Are Figs Good for You?
Yes, of course, figs are good for you! The fruit is rich in fiber and so many essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, calcium, manganese, potassium, copper, vitamin B6 and vitamin K.
One fact about the figs that may surprise you is that the nutritional value of the figs that are dried are more than the fresh ones. A single serving of a dried fig is actually as good as eating an egg. However, eating figs, fresh or dried are very rich in powerful antioxidants.
Moreover, the figs have a major role when it comes to traditional medicines. Actually, in traditional ways, the figs are used dried, grounded, or in the form of a paste to counter various illnesses and conditions.
Health Benefits of Figs
Here are some of the best health benefits of figs:
Prevents macular degeneration. Figs are believed to have a positive effect in improving the vision and prevent macular degeneration since it has vitamin A content.
Prevents hypertension. Figs help in restoring the balance of sodium and potassium in the body.
Strengthens the bones. The calcium, magnesium, and potassium in the figs are beneficial for the bone health. Moreover, the fruit improves the bone density and reduce the bone breakdown.
Prevents breast cancer. The high fiber content of the fruit is beneficial in reducing the risk for breast cancer.
Cures anaemia. The consumption of dried figs shows a positive effect in improving the levels of hemoglobin in the blood.
Prevents colon cancer. If you regularly consume figs, it may help in reducing the risk of colon cancer. The fiber content of the fruit is the one that takes in-charge of this particular benefit.
Lowers the cholesterol level. The pectin content of the fruit is actually a soluble fiber, which is beneficial in reducing the cholesterol levels. Moreover, it also helps in clearing out the excess cholesterol in the digestive tract.
Improves heart health. Figs effectively reduce the triglyceride levels in the blood. Furthermore, it also contributes to improving the heart health.
Enhances the digestive health. The fruit is beneficial in relieving constipation and it also improves the overall health of the digestive system. Furthermore, the fiber content of figs is essential for the digestion.
