Other names for Fig
abalife
black fig concentrate
dried fig fruit powder
ficus carica, fermented
fig
fig bud extract
fig bud (ficus carica) extract
fig concentrate
fig extract
fig extract, powder
fig, fermented
fig (ficus carica) bud extract
fig fruit extract
fig fruits
fig juice powder
fig juice, powder
fig leaf extract
fig powder
fig, powder
figs
fig syrup
fig tree
purple fig
yellow fig
Bengal Fig
Cluster Fig
Hairy Fig
White Fig
Synopsis of Fig
History
Figs (Ficus carica) have a long and storied history as both a delicious food and a medicinal remedy. Dating back thousands of years, figs were prized in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome for their health-promoting qualities. Traditional healers valued figs for their natural sweetness, high fiber content, and impressive array of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Historically, figs were used to soothe digestive complaints, such as constipation and indigestion, thanks to their gentle laxative effect. In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern folk medicine, fig preparations—such as fig syrup or decoctions—were commonly administered for coughs, sore throats, and respiratory troubles. Poultices made from mashed figs were applied externally to treat skin infections, abscesses, and even warts, reflecting the fig's versatile role in holistic remedies.
Figs have also found a place in herbal combinations, where they are often paired with herbs like senna or cascara sagrada to enhance digestive health and support regularity. Blending figs with licorice, ginger, or fennel amplifies their soothing and nourishing effects, making these combinations popular in traditional tonics and teas. Their natural sweetness not only makes herbal formulations more palatable but also contributes valuable phytonutrients that support overall well-being.
Today, figs continue to be appreciated in nutritional products for their gentle action, pleasant taste, and rich nutrient profile. Their enduring legacy in traditional medicine underscores their positive contributions to health and wellness across cultures and generations.
Traditional and scientific validation
Figs (Ficus carica) have a long-standing tradition as both a food and a medicinal ingredient, dating back thousands of years to ancient Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. Historical records highlight their use for digestive health, energy provision, and as a natural sweetener. In traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani, figs have been employed to support gastrointestinal function, respiratory health, and general wellness.
From a scientific perspective, figs are recognized for their rich nutritional profile, offering dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin A, B vitamins, and vitamin K), minerals (notably potassium, magnesium, and calcium), and a variety of antioxidants including polyphenols and flavonoids. Several in vitro and animal studies have suggested that figs may exert beneficial effects on blood sugar regulation, lipid metabolism, and inflammation, likely attributable to these bioactive compounds.
Some small-scale human clinical studies have explored fig consumption in relation to glycemic control and digestive health, showing promising results, such as improved bowel regularity and modest reductions in postprandial blood glucose. However, large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials are still limited, and more research is needed to firmly establish the efficacy of figs for specific health outcomes.
Overall, the inclusion of figs in nutritional products is supported by their nutrient density, historical use, and emerging scientific evidence. While definitive health claims require further validation, figs represent a wholesome and flavorful ingredient that can contribute positively to a balanced diet and overall wellness.
Fig is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Fig is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
