Figs are among the oldest domesticated crops ever. Already in ancient times, they were revered as a staple food and cultivated abundantly. They not only taste good, but also have a whole range of positive effects on health.
Occurrence and cultivation of the fig
Since ancient times, the fig has been cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region, although its origin is not proven with certainty. It can also be found running wild. The true fig (Ficus carica) is a plant species from the genus of figs (Ficus). It is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region. The deciduous shrub or fig tree grows between three and ten meters high. Its branches grow low and wide, the crown is spreading. The trunk of the fig tree is often gnarled, twisted or bent. The bark is usually light gray in color and smooth in texture. The entire plant contains milky sap, which is used in folk medicine and other applications. The leaves of the fig tree are leathery and have a toothed leaf margin and a rough-haired upper surface. They can grow up to twenty centimeters wide. The inflorescence is pear-shaped and monoecious in many fig species. Thus, both female and male inflorescences can be found on one specimen. After three to five months, the female inflorescence develops into a fig. The drupe contains small seeds inside and is spherical to pear-shaped. Their coloration is green to dark purple, depending on the species, and the flesh is red in color. The domestic or edible fig is the most edible. It has only female flowers and has the appendix var. domestica. Since ancient times, the fig has been cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region, although its origin is not known for certain. It can also be found running wild.
Effect and application
Up to 1.5 million tons of figs are harvested annually. Of these, a large part is dried. This is done either in the sun or in hot air ovens. While the fig normally contains around 80 percent water, drying reduces its water content to as low as 18 percent. The sugar content increases to around 60 percent. The main use of figs is as fruit in stores and markets. However, the juice of figs is also processed and sold as dessert wine. In addition, in some countries the fig is also roasted and sold as fig coffee. In Spain and Portugal, it is even processed into fig cheese. In the 13th and 15th centuries, the wood of the fig tree was processed into wooden panels. These were used in painting. In addition, the white milk juice is used in folk medicine. Here it is used, for example, against warts or mosquito bites. In general, the fig contains a variety of health-promoting ingredients such as carbohydrates, fiber, various vitamins – especially vitamin B1 – and minerals.
Importance for health, treatment and prevention.
Figs have an effect on health not to be despised. The many different ingredients have a positive effect on almost the entire organism. For example, figs act as antioxidants and protect the body from cell damage. The contained vitamin C also protects the vascular walls from calcification. Thus, diseases such as arteriosclerosis can be prevented. Figs are rich in dietary fiber. They contain pectins in particular. On the one hand, this promotes digestive activity and prevents constipation, and on the other hand, dietary fibers cause a quick feeling of satiety. This makes them ideal for diets and can help you lose weight in a healthy way. In addition, the optimal composition of sugar in figs, which regulates blood sugar levels. Thus, they can reduce insulin levels in diabetes – even as a tea. They are also a rich source of carbohydrates and protein and promote the formation of good HDL cholesterol. Because of their high potassium content, they lower blood pressure and provide the body with iron. As a result, they can prevent anemia. In addition, the minerals they contain have a positive effect on concentration. Calcium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium and zinc increase memory performance and can thus be the optimal and healthy snack for pupils and students during learning phases, for example. Incidentally, the fig is said to have a positive effect on tumor diseases.This is partly due to the fiber it contains and the omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. In case of illness fig tea is suitable against cough. They are antibacterial and thus can also be used externally for skin diseases. Their antiseptic and decongestant effect helps relieve discomfort and promotes healing. The calcium they contain incidentally strengthens bones and teeth, helping to keep them healthy. Figs also have a promising effect on the state of mind. Thus, they serve to reduce stress and promote contentment. In addition, they can provide better sleep and are thus an effective remedy for sleep disorders. The reason for this is the many different vitamins contained in the fig. In addition, figs contain the protein tryophan, which, as a precursor of the happiness hormone serotonin, lightens the mood and can lift the spirits. Thus, the fig can be considered an all-rounder for health. It is used both internally as a food and externally for skin complaints and shows a whole range of promising effects on the human body. However, due to the large amount of fiber and sugar, sensitive people may react with intestinal discomfort after eating figs. Therefore, figs should also be consumed only in moderation.
