Dried and Fresh Figs: Learn the Health Benefits of Figs

Health Benefits of Figs

Figs are part of the Mulberry family and grow on the ficus tree. They are one of the earliest fruits to be cultivated by man. Figs are native to the Middle East and are now produced mostly in Turkey, Greece, and California.

Figs are small and sweet smelling. When buying, they should be plump and tender (not mushy) and have a rich, deep color. Fresh figs deteriorate quickly so they should be eaten within a day or two after purchasing. For this reason, dried figs tend to be more popular. When buying dried figs, look for unsulfured ones.

Figs are high in dietary fiber, vitamin B6, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, iron, and copper. They are highly alkaline fruits that help balance pH levels in the body.

Health Benefits of Figs

Figs can be applied to the skin to treat boils and warts.

• For boils: Warm a fresh fig and cut it in half. Apply the mushy inner part over the boil and secure it. After a couple hours, warm the other half (again) and replace the first half with it. Do this at least once a day.

• For warts: Crush a fresh fig until mushy and apply to the wart for 30 minutes each day until gone.

Fresh figs are also good for toothaches. Split one open, squeeze the juice out, and apply the juice to your aching tooth. You can repeat this every 15 minutes until the pain stops.

Dried figs are an excellent source of food for energy. They contain easily digestible, slow-burning sugars that can keep you going for hours. Eat only a few at a time because they are also well known for treating constipation.

Other health benefits of figs (eating fresh and dried figs) include:

• improving memory
• reducing blood cholesterol
• increasing libido
• regulating blood pressure
• managing weight.

Fig Bar Recipe

• Add 1/2 cup of butter (room temperature) and 1 cup of light brown sugar (firmly packed) in a large mixing bowl and mix using a hand held electric mixer. Add 3 large eggs, 1 teaspoon (tsp) of finely grated lemon peel, and 1 tsp of vanilla to the mixture and beat well.

• Sift 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, and 1/2 tsp of salt in a separate bowl. Gradually blend into the above mixture.

• Stir in 1 1/2 cups of finely chopped dried figs and 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.

• Pour into a greased 13x9x2" baking pan and bake at 350° for 25 minutes.

This is a great way to enjoy the many health benefits of figs!

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