Figs: benefits and harms to the body, medicinal properties, calorie content. Useful properties of figs - fruits of the tree of paradise for our health

19.10.2019

figs- This is a deciduous tree, belongs to the Mulberry family and is included in the genus Ficus. The plant came into human use quite a long time ago, starting from the end of the eleventh century BC. Today, figs are a common crop in the Mediterranean countries, the Carpathians, Georgia, Abkhazia and the Black Sea coast.

Figs are called differently: "Fig", "Common fig tree", "Fig tree", "wine berry", "fig". So the name "fig tree" is quite often found in the text of the Bible and Old Testament. The tree has a smooth bark with a light gray tint. The hard leaves of the plant are large, located on the branches in turn, have from three to seven lobes that resemble the fingers of a palm.

Figs: how it grows, description

Inflorescences develop on shortened shoots located in the leaf axils. The inflorescences are divided into male caprifigs and female figs, appearing on different trees. Male inflorescences look like a bouquet of small flowers, while female flowers in the inflorescence are quite large.

After pollination, female flowers form seedlings, where each fruit is a nutlet. In the process of pollination of most species of figs, small, black blastophagous wasps play an important role. Only some parthenocarpic varieties obtained in the breeding process can do without pollinating insects.

The fig is covered with a thin, delicate peel with tiny hairs. To taste it is fragrant, meaty and sweet. The color of the fruit can be different: purple, yellow, yellow-green and dark blue. Ripe, fresh fruits contain a lot of sugars. According to some sources, this is about 24%, according to others up to 75%. Also in figs are fats, organic acids, proteins and coumarin. Unripe fruits are not eaten because of the content of milky juice in them.

The economic value of figs is due to its nutritional value and excellent taste. In cooking, figs are used to make various jams and preserves. They are dried and preserved and used in baking bread. The fruits of the fig tree are also used in medicine. To do this, after harvesting, the leaves are collected from the tree, dried and crushed. From the raw materials obtained, a drug is made for the treatment of skin diseases (baldness and skin pigmentation).

The fruits themselves have medicinal properties that help in the fight against diseases of the throat, bronchi and lungs. Due to the fact that the fruits of the fig tree contain a large amount of iron, they are used in preparations for patients with anemia.

Because of the elegant and showy foliage, the fig tree is often grown as an ornamental, indoor crop. The tree is planted in a large tub or pot and carefully looked after. However, it is almost impossible to achieve flowering and fruiting at home.

Useful properties of figs, composition and calorie content

Surely, those who have visited the Mediterranean countries at least once, as well as Uzbekistan, Armenia, Turkey or China, did not miss the opportunity to try the valuable and tasty fig fruit.

On the one hand, it costs less at home, and on the other hand, they are used to importing it to Europe exclusively in dried form, because fig fruits are very sensitive to even minor mechanical stress, which is why they deteriorate almost instantly. It is now that manufacturers carefully pack the fruit in separate cardboard containers and export it to other states where there is no such “miracle” of nature.

Of course, doctors recommend, if possible, to use the fruits of wild varieties. But “tasting” them will be possible only in the homeland of figs, which not everyone can go to. Therefore, you have to buy a cultivated version. It was created in order to obtain large yields, which is why the plant does not contain male inflorescences and, as a result, inedible caprifigs.

Seriously, the consumer does not always pay attention to rounded or pear-shaped juicy fruits, modestly reclining on store and market stalls, covered with light gray skin (although, depending on the variety, it can be brown, and green, and even bright orange) with honey taste and numerous small seeds inside, called nuts. Indeed, in appearance they are unattractive, but in terms of their “useful” composition they are priceless.

dried figs

Fig fruits are characterized by:

almost complete absence of fats and, as a result, cholesterol; it contains only carbohydrates and some proteins;
high content of various sugars (they make up about 70% of the total composition of the pulp) and useful organic acids;
the presence of vitamins of groups B, C and A (although the latter is represented in a negligible percentage, which allows people who are allergic to carotene to use this fruit);
the content of such important trace elements as potassium, calcium, manganese, iron.

So what are the benefits and harms of figs in its use?

If we evaluate the impact of all these components, then we can indicate a number of useful properties from eating fresh figs:

Normalization of blood pressure. Doctors point out that the main cause of hypertension is an imbalance of potassium and sodium in the human body. And if you include figs in the diet, then the pressure will not only normalize, but will also acquire a stable rate.
Strengthening the skeletal system. Due to the fact that a tasty fruit contains a sufficient amount of calcium, a person has the opportunity, without the use of special calcified preparations that adversely affect the kidneys, to maintain bone density and strength. After all, the use of one fruit fills the daily need of the body for this microelement. Figs are especially useful for pregnant women and those who have crossed the threshold of menopause, when dangerous osteoporosis most often develops.
Removal of toxic substances. Figs are included in the group of antioxidant fruits.
Treatment of urinary and gallstone disease. It was found that the juice and pulp of this fruit gently and painlessly crush stones in the gallbladder and kidneys.

Useful properties of figs for weight loss

NEW RESEARCH ON THE PROPERTIES OF FIGS

Scientific developments of scientists recent years allow to draw a conclusion about the qualitative impact of figs on weight loss. Initially, in Asian countries, where the berry comes from, figs were used not only to improve health, but also to lose weight.

The ability of figs to perfectly cleanse the blood vessels of the body from cholesterol, to have a beneficial effect on the digestive system, makes this berry valuable in the diet. healthy eating. Vitamin composition (vitamin B complex), carotene, nicotinic acid - all these are the “jewels” of the “wine berry”. For example, nicotinic acid can normalize the work of the stomach, become a means of preventing atherosclerosis.

Nutritionists appreciate the minerals in figs, which play a leading role in eliminating extra pounds. Losing weight is not an easy burden, which is why the fig-based diet is so attractive in this regard. Potassium, which is contained in the berry, normalizes the body's water balance, reduces accumulated fatigue, and is responsible for the functioning of all blood vessels and muscles. Moreover, it is potassium that makes a significant contribution to the prevention of atherosclerosis.

"NON-EXISTENT" FIG DIET

Nutritionists in their pure form do not distinguish a diet based solely on figs. The berry itself contains sugar in large quantities, for example, 3 fresh berries are 50 kilocalories, but 100 grams in dried form is already 250 kilocalories.

Experts, based on the data obtained, came to the conclusion that the abuse of figs is dangerous for the figure, but 10 berries a day is the norm for healthy and wholesome food. For example, eating 2 figs half an hour before dinner, you can provoke the disappearance, dull the feeling of hunger and reduce the amount of food during the lunch meal.

Figs in an amount of up to 8 pieces can be a great treat for dinner or an afternoon snack. It is known that nutritionists recommend sometimes, if possible, to arrange days of unloading based on figs. So, it is more expedient to eat only figs and any, but unsweetened drink for an afternoon snack.

Figs - a source of energy

Juicy fig fruits perfectly quench thirst and hunger for long time. The daily need of the human body for potassium and life-affirming calcium, giving strength to the gland is satisfied by eating 20 fruits of this berry.

The properties of figs are invaluable to consumers during the berry harvest period, since at this time (1 month) you can easily arrange unloading snacks. A diet based on figs copes with excess weight, allows muscles to strengthen, and vitality recover. Experts have found that figs improve immunity.

The harm of figs for the body

There are also contraindications to the use of this product:

First of all, diabetes. It is also important to know that people suffering from gout should not consume this fruit in large quantities, because it contains a large amount of oxalic acid.

Due to the high fiber content, people who suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract of an inflammatory nature should also stop eating this useful fruit, because it can aggravate and exacerbate the underlying disease.

Along with having beneficial properties, this fruit is considered harmful to eat for people suffering from pancreatic diseases.

It is contraindicated to use figs for pancreatitis. Also, if you have indigestion, then you should take care of yourself, because having a good effect on constipation, it will have the opposite effect on diarrhea, thereby causing dehydration.

You can’t eat figs even before driving (it turns out that it synthesizes alcohol in the blood).

Useful properties of figs for women

Skin and hair care: recipes for homemade cosmetics with figs

What is useful figs for women? Oriental beauties actively include figs in their delicate skin care program. To feel the amazing effect of rejuvenation, just cut the fruit into two halves, and then gently massage your face and neck. After fifteen minutes, you can wash clean water without adding soap.

All over the world, cosmetologists love and appreciate figs for such “talents”:

It remarkably strengthens the hair, protecting them from damage and overdrying;
fruits contribute to deep hydration, cleansing and toning the skin;
figs effectively smooth wrinkles, give the skin firmness and elasticity;
it literally erases blackheads, pimples and other unattractive rashes from the face;
fig tree fruits noticeably improve the condition of the nails: they gain strength and strength.

Conclusion: Such multifaceted properties of figs make it possible to lay it in the basis of delicate tonics and scrubs, as well as face and hair masks.

Mask with figs for all skin types

This care product allows you to use both fresh and dried fruits. In the case of dried figs, it must first be soaked in milk or boiled water - for only fifteen minutes.

Next, 2 pieces need to be chopped in a blender, then combined with 1 yolk, a tablespoon of bee honey and a similar amount of any vegetable oil(better than olive or grape seeds). The composition is applied to clean, dry skin.

In addition to the face, you can also pamper the décolleté and neck. The active action of the mask takes about twenty-five minutes, then it must be removed with a damp cloth soaked in mineral water.

Mask with figs for aging skin

If you combine figs with mango, you get an excellent tool to maintain youthful skin. To prepare a smoothing mask, you will need the following components:

fig fruits (2 pieces),
peach oil (1 tablespoon),
ripe mango (1 piece),
chicken egg (1 piece),
cottage cheese (half a cup),
honey (20 ml).

After all the ingredients are well mixed, the mask is applied to the face for half an hour (the composition must be warm). Remove it with a cotton swab moistened with fresh milk. Then the face is additionally rinsed with warm water.

The duration of application of the nourishing mask is 2 months, the optimal number of procedures is 1-2 during each week.

Mask with figs for dry skin care

Figs allow you to quickly and easily cope with inflammation on dry skin. It intensively moisturizes, gives velvety and heals all microdamages of the skin.

It will take only 1 ripe fruit of a fig tree. It should be cleaned, kneaded and combined with 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese. Curd - fig mask is left for twenty to thirty minutes, you need to remove it with milk and warm water.

Moisturizing mask with figs

This tool perfectly copes with the tasks of moisturizing and nourishing, while improving complexion. You will need:

Almond oil (1 tablespoon)
figs (3 pieces),
honey (1 tablespoon),
egg (1 piece),
milk (200 milliliters),
oatmeal (half a cup).

Figs must be peeled and boiled in milk. Then, after mixing with the rest of the ingredients, it is thoroughly whipped with a blender.

The mask, aged for forty minutes, is best used in the autumn - winter season (when the skin needs enhanced care). The frequency of repetitions is up to two procedures per week for a couple of months.

Mask with figs for puffy skin

Aging skin, prone to inflammation and puffiness, will be strengthened by a mask based on figs, apples and bananas. The composition is as follows:

figs (2 pieces),

fat cottage cheese (2 tablespoons),
banana (1 fruit),
egg (1 piece),
sour apple (1 piece),
peach oil (20 ml),
oil solution of vitamin E (10 drops).

Cottage cheese, an egg and the pulp of each of the fruits must be properly chopped in a blender. Vitamin can be added both before and after whipping, the main thing is to achieve a homogeneous, thoroughly mixed consistency.

The presented mask is used not only on the skin of the face and neck, but also in the décolleté area. It can also be used as a nourishing hand cream. The composition should be applied in a dense layer, the duration of the procedure should not be longer than forty minutes. It is recommended to remove the remnants of the care product first with a napkin, and then alternately with warm and cool water (ideally mineral).

The traditional course is 2 months, 3 procedures per week. The mask works especially well in winter.

Fig Toning Lotion

In order for the skin to acquire a healthy, delicate and radiant appearance, it should be treated more often with a useful fig lotion. It is prepared extremely simply: you just need to make an infusion at the rate of 25 grams of fruit per glass of boiling water. It takes several hours for the components to come into active action, after which the infusion is filtered.

You need to wipe your face with this natural lotion daily, in several approaches.

Figs for teeth whitening

Achieve a dazzling smile? There is nothing easier! All you need is fig ash and some glycerin. The components are combined with each other to the consistency of a thick paste. You should brush your teeth with it every day.

Fig hair mask

Useful goodies perfectly manifests itself in hair care. To improve the quality of the hair and cure split ends, you will need a couple of dried figs and 200 ml of milk.

The fruits must be poured with milk and brought to a boil over low heat. Then, still in slow mode, the composition is boiled to a homogeneous consistency. After some cooling, the mask can be applied to the hair. Daily use is allowed.

Obviously, such a delicacy as figs is worthy of the title of a tireless fighter for female beauty!

Fig jam

Fig jam will become a real ray of light in winter, which will fill your home with a bright aroma and exquisite taste.

To make fig jam, you need to peel 100 green figs. Remember to wear gloves before cleaning. Boil until half cooked in plenty of water. Rinse the cooked figs in cold water and squeeze lightly.
Boil 1 kg of sugar in three glasses of water until a thick syrup is obtained.

When ready, add the figs and cook over medium heat until the water is completely absorbed into the figs. And finally, add 1 tbsp. lemon juice. Boil and remove from fire. For more flavor, you can put an asterisk of cloves or vanillin.

Figs in syrup

For 2.5 liters:

- a kilogram of figs;
- 700 g of sugar;
- two or three star anise stars;
- one and a half glasses of water;
- a teaspoon of vanillin;
- lemon;
- cinnamon stick (4 cm).

Cooking progress.

Wash the figs and put them in a colander, dip in boiling water for a minute, then transfer to cold water.
Combine water with sugar, mix and put on fire. When bubbles begin to form, remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice into it, mix. Immerse all the figs and spices in the syrup, cover with a lid and leave for six to eight hours.
Boil figs in syrup for three to five minutes (count from the moment of boiling), remove from heat, cover with a lid and leave overnight. In the morning, boil again for five minutes (from the moment of boiling), remove from heat.
Fill prepared jars with figs, pour syrup on top. Roll up, can be closed with plastic lids. Store figs in syrup in a dark place.

Figs: planting and care in the open field

When choosing a seedling, you need to choose the right fig variety.

Violet Sukhumi, Sochi-7, Kadota, Solar- these varieties of figs with their tasty and juicy fruits are suitable for growing in open and closed ground, or indoors. Brunswick, Panashi, Brown Turkey, red Bordeaux, Crimean black, Dalmatian, very often found in different regions and can withstand up to 20 degrees below zero.

To protect the fig from icing, it must be wrapped in paper, film or bent to the ground for the winter and sprinkled with foliage and covered with spunbond.

Different varieties differ in their requirements for pollination. There are varieties that are self-pollinating, requiring pollination or are self-fertile.

Figs can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, roots or layering. When buying a seedling, you need to find out by what method it was propagated, and whether the parent tree had fruits.

Seeds rarely take root, and the grown plant produces small fruits, because of this, this method is rarely used. To breed from seeds, you need fruits from a self-fertile tree or a tree pollinated by male flowers from a neighboring fig tree.

A stalk with four buds should have oblique cuts on both sides. It is planted in a container with a mixture of peat, earth and sand, which is pre-calcined and watered with a solution of potassium permanganate. To form a good root system, small notches are made above the cut.

The lower cut should be deepened to the second eye from the bottom. The upper one, rise above one, two kidneys above the ground.

Also, the cutting can be put in a jar of water with the addition of growth accelerators, this method allows you to quickly root the plant and transplant it immediately into the ground.

A planted cutting in the ground or a container should be covered with polyethylene or a cut bottle.

Fig cuttings require constant moisture. The direct rays of the sun should not fall on the plant, but it should not grow in the shade either. After half a month, the film or bottle can be removed for a day and eventually removed for good. To adapt, it needs to be sprayed with water from a spray bottle several times a day.

Transplanting into the ground from a container can be done when green leaves appear and the plant is fully rooted. Fruiting begins after two years. Until this moment, the plant grows intensively, then growth stops.

In the spring, top dressing is carried out with nitrogen, phosphorus and potash fertilizers. In summer and early autumn, you can fertilize with humus, superphosphate fertilizers and potassium salt.

Basal shoots and layering, sprinkled with earth, take root and grow best. The branches are dug in and watered, after a couple of months the plant can be separated from the mother and transplanted. In a couple of years, these layers will bear fruit.

For a transplant, you need to choose a place on the south windless side. The roots of the plant, if they are without an earthen coma, are dipped in liquid diluted clay. In cool climates, figs are recommended to be planted in a trench.

For good fruiting, you need to form the crown of a tree or bush. With a growth of 30 centimeters, the central shoot pinches. An adult plant should have 4 main branches. To form a small bush, excess branches are removed.

Figs, at proper care, can grow in different latitudes and on different soils. It belongs to cold-resistant plants, and when good choice planting material, grows in beautiful bush or a tree that produces healthy and tasty fruits up to two times a year.

Video: Figs benefits for the body

Fig tree or fig tree is one of the first plants whose value was recognized and glorified by people. Sweet, quickly satisfying hunger figs, the beneficial properties of which did not leave indifferent the healers of Greece, Rome, the Middle East and Asia, were repeatedly described in the greatest literary sources, depicted on canvases and sculptures by the masters of antiquity and the Renaissance. And today, when the biochemical composition of fresh and dried fruits is fully studied, figs have not lost their popularity.

Over the past four hundred years, fig trees have greatly expanded their area of growth. Figs are cultivated not only in their historical homeland, in the Middle East and North Africa, but also on the American continent. The heat-loving culture also took root on the Black Sea coast of Russia. But due to the short shelf life, fresh fruits around the world are mainly dried and processed.

Calorie content of figs

And only plucked wine berries and dried ones are tasty, nutritious and contain many bioactive substances. However, the calorie content of figs and its nutritional value in this case are different.

100 grams of fresh figs contain:

1.5% proteins;
0.4% vegetable fats;
4.9% carbohydrates;
12.5% ash;
1.4% moisture.

Fiber-rich fruits accumulate a significant amount of sugars as they ripen, which determines the dessert taste and high nutritional value. A few fresh berries perfectly satisfy hunger, but at the same time, only 74 kcal per 100 grams of fruit.

As a result of drying, the beneficial properties of figs are fully preserved and even multiplied. But along with the loss of moisture, the concentration of carbohydrates increases.

What is useful figs

Like other plant products, fig fruits contain vitamins and mineral salts, sugars and organic acids, fiber and other compounds that can affect a person's well-being. Therefore, the benefits and harms of figs for the body are determined by its biochemical composition. There are a lot of fresh and especially dried fruits in the composition:

vital B vitamins;
micro and macro elements, including magnesium and iron, potassium and calcium;
fiber indispensable for active digestion.

Although figs cannot be called a source of ascorbic acid, the rutin contained in its pulp helps the absorption of this vitamin. The same component, together with flavonoids and natural antioxidants, strengthens blood vessels, is responsible for regeneration and cellular rejuvenation.

Coarse fiber, leaving most of the fig fruit, perfectly cleanses the intestines and activates its work, fights the accumulation of toxins and resists the development of pathogenic microflora.

Useful properties of figs

The main areas of therapeutic application of the properties of figs are gastroenterology, cardiology and neurology. Vegetable raw materials are used for the manufacture of laxatives, strengthening capillaries and cosmetic preparations.

What is useful figs for self-use? The introduction of its fruits into the diet will be as beneficial as possible:

Fresh fruits are used in the treatment of diseases of the vascular system, including hypertension, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins.
Figs are an excellent laxative. It quickly and gently cleanses the intestines, stimulating its work and removing accumulated toxins from the body. Along the way, a disinfectant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect of the fruit is manifested.
Possessing diaphoretic properties, the fruits of the fig tree help relieve fever.
When used externally, the pulp softens and nourishes the skin. Beneficial features figs can relieve redness and irritation.

Today, doctors are studying the effect of fruits on cancer cells, as well as the possibility of using figs for inflammatory liver diseases.

With a hangover, after household poisoning or other intoxications, figs with benefits and without harm to the body alleviate the condition, speed up recovery.

Figs with cough milk: recipe and application features

Soft, fibrous pulp folk medicine It has long been used as a mucus thinner and expectorant. To do this, prepare a decoction of dried fruits in milk. Warm medicine effectively soothes an irritated throat, reduces pain and speeds up recovery. And the sweet taste of the broth is very popular with both adults and children.

The recipe for figs with cough milk is very simple. For a glass of drinking milk, take 2-3 figs, which are thoroughly washed beforehand. hot water. The components are put on a small fire and, stirring, boil until two-thirds of the original volume remains in the container.

In order for the cough remedy to be as useful as possible, it should be wrapped up and left for several hours to infuse. The decoction is taken warm three times a day, 100–150 ml at a time. So the beneficial properties of figs will be revealed in full force.

Figs during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Figs contain an abundance of dietary fiber, vitamins and trace elements that will useful woman expecting a baby or already breastfeeding a baby.

During pregnancy, the growing fetus puts pressure on the digestive organs. As a result, constipation is not excluded. A small amount of fresh or dry fruits as a dessert or a light snack will help to cope with them and prevent new disorders.

At the same time, you need to remember that you should not get involved in figs during pregnancy because of the high sugar content. You can include fruit in the menu only after making sure that it does not cause allergic or other negative reactions.

Contraindications to the use of figs

Like many other products of plant origin, figs have both beneficial properties and contraindications for use. With extreme caution should be attributed to the fruit for those who suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute stage. Do not include figs in your diet if you are prone to diarrhea.

Diabetics and allergy sufferers with individual intolerance to exotic fruits will have to refuse to eat figs. The last risk category includes pregnant and lactating women. Figs during breastfeeding are introduced into the menu very carefully, following not only the reaction of the mother's body, but also the child.

A high concentration of organic acids in fresh fruits can cause exacerbation of gout, pancreatitis and urolithiasis. Only if you follow the rules of personal safety, delicious sweet fruits will give a lot of pleasure and will not harm your health.

Video about the benefits of figs for the body

Figs grow in warm and dry climates around the world. It is eaten fresh or dried.

Sweet fruits contain a lot of sugar. In the Mediterranean countries, figs are so popular that they call them "poor people's food".

Figs have been used to treat diseases for thousands of years. It contains many vitamins and minerals.

The composition and calorie content of figs

Figs are rich in fiber, which is good for digestion and preventing thrombosis.

Composition 100 gr. figs as a percentage of daily allowance:

Calorie content of figs - 74 kcal per 100 gr.

For centuries, figs and extracts from them have been used to combat constipation, bronchitis, disorders, wounds and warts.

For muscles

Figs contain magnesium, which is important during physical activity. It is involved in energy production muscle contractions. During intense exercise, magnesium requirements increase by 10-20%.

For the heart and blood vessels

Figs relieve stress on the walls of the veins.

Thanks to magnesium and potassium, figs help keep blood pressure normal. The element removes sodium from the body through urine.

For nerves

Useful properties of figs protect nerve cells from destruction and age-related death.

Magnesium in figs prevents migraines, helps fight depression, insomnia and improves mood.

For the gastrointestinal tract

Doctors advise adding figs to the diet of people suffering from chronic constipation.

For the pancreas

The leaves of fig trees are valuable for health due to their antioxidant properties. Taking fig leaf extract lowers blood sugar levels.

Figs increase insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

For the reproductive system

Figs are good for women because they contain magnesium and vitamin B6. They reduce the manifestation of premenstrual syndrome, which occurs 1-2 weeks before menstruation. This manifests as mood swings, weight gain, food cravings, fatigue, irritability, chest pain, and digestive problems.

For skin

Fig leaves prevent the development of skin cancer. Creams with fig extract reduce wrinkles on the face, thanks to antioxidants. They can be used for hyperpigmentation, acne and freckles.

For immunity

Figs contain antioxidants that prevent aging and cancer. The fruit relieves inflammation in all organs.

Useful properties of dried figs

Dried figs contain 19% of the daily value of potassium, which regulates blood pressure. With regular use of dried fruit, you will protect yourself from the development of hypertension.

The fruit contains a lot of fiber, which protects against overeating. If you want to lose weight, replace sweets in your diet with dried figs.

Dried figs are rich in iron. Women aged 19 to 50 should receive 18 mg. iron per day, and over 51 years old - 8 mg. A glass of dried figs contains 3 mg. gland. If the body lacks an element, you become vulnerable to infections and constantly feel weak.

Harm and contraindications of figs

Contraindications to the use of figs:

How to choose figs

Figs are sold in grocery stores and markets, they are supplied all year round. It is advisable to eat the fruit from mid-June to mid-October - so the benefits from it will be maximum. Choose figs with a rich color.

How to store figs

Fresh figs are best eaten immediately after picking from the tree. In the refrigerator, its shelf life will increase by a couple of days. After purchasing a fig, take it out of the package immediately.

Jams and marmalades are boiled from figs or dried. You can freeze figs up to 12 hours after harvest to extend their freshness.

Drying fruit is the easiest way to preserve fig fruits. traditional method drying in the sun gives products with different quality. Drying the fruit in special "dryers" ensures healthy dried figs. In most commercial growing areas, figs are harvested as they fall and placed on trays to dry.

Figs are full of beneficial compounds, so they can be used as a healthy alternative to sweets.

Figs are a healthy southern berry with a peculiar sweet taste. Most often used in dried form. But at the end of summer, fresh fruits also appear on sale for a short time. What are the benefits of figs? What are the properties and uses of fig fruit?

Botanical description

It grows in southern countries and regions - in Egypt, Abkhazia, Uzbekistan, Georgia, on the Crimean peninsula. It is a tall tree up to 13 meters. The foliage is hard, large, palmately lobed. The fig tree is considered one of the most ancient crops. In the people it is called a wine berry, fig, fig tree, fig.

Ripe fruits are valuable. In alternative medicine, the leaves and root are used to make medicinal decoctions. Fruit pear-shaped, with many seeds. There are varieties different colors. The most common green figs with a yellow tint. It is eaten raw, jams are prepared. Black figs make delicious dried fruits. After drying, the berries acquire a lighter shade. White figs are similar in taste to black figs.

Do not eat unripe fruits. Their milky juice, when ingested, causes poisoning. It is used as an external remedy - to treat acne and remove warts.

Chemical composition and nutritional value

The fig tree spoils quickly, but is sold dried all year round. During the drying process, the fruits do not lose their useful properties - the concentration of valuable substances even increases. The table shows the nutritional value of fresh and dried berries.

Table - Nutritional value of dried and fresh figs

Calorie content also changes - in fresh fruits there are only 74 kcal, in dried ones - 257 kcal. The concentration of nutrients also differs. Data on the content of vitamins are given in the table.

Table - The content of vitamins in fresh and dry figs

Vitamin content in 100 g	Fresh, mg	Dried, mg
WITH	2	–
A	7	7
E	0,11	0,3
IN 1	0,06	0,07
IN 2	0,05	0,09
AT 5	0,3	–
AT 6	0,11	0,08
AT 9	0,006	0,021
RR	0,4	0,7

The chemical composition includes valuable elements - calcium, potassium, magnesium. There are phosphorus, iron, sodium. Figs contain natural enzymes, organic acids, pectins. The beneficial properties of figs are enhanced by the content of phytosterol, Omega-3, Omega-6 acids, glyceric acid.

Moderate amounts of figs are beneficial during pregnancy. It contains the necessary substances for the correct intrauterine formation of the fetus. A balanced combination of vitamin B9 and iron prevents anemia. During breastfeeding Fig berries are used to enhance lactation.

The effect of fruits on the body

For treatment, dried or dried figs are often used. It does not lose useful properties during storage for a long time. Fresh fruits are only available for a few months of the year.

Dried

The medicinal properties of dried figs have been known for a long time. It is an effective tonic, tonic, immunomodulatory, anti-cold remedy. Its most common use is in ten cases.

Treatment with fresh figs is no less effective. It is used in the treatment of all the diseases listed above. But the fresh fruits of the fig tree have additional medicinal properties.

Diseases of the kidneys and bladder. It has a slight diuretic effect, improves kidney function, relieves inflammation.
Dermatological diseases. The juice of a fresh fig tree is rubbed on the skin with acne, inflammation of the surface tissues.
fungus. The fig contains substances that have an antifungal effect.
Rheumatism. Berry compresses relieve pain in rheumatism, arthritis, and other joint diseases.

The leaves of the fig tree contain furocoumarins, organic acids, essential oil, steroids, tannins, flavonoids. With diarrhea, flatulence, poisoning, colitis, bronchitis, tea from fig leaves can be brewed to alleviate the patient's condition.

The benefits of figs

The fig tree benefits the male and female body, exerting different effects on it. At the same time, the effect of strengthening the immune system and improving the general condition is achieved.

For women

For women, the benefits of figs are to get rid of common diseases, a beneficial effect on appearance. With proper, regular use, the fig tree has the following effect on the female body.

Varicose veins. Figs reduce swelling, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, thins the blood, eliminates heaviness and pain in the legs.
Seizures. During pregnancy, after prolonged wear high heels sometimes convulsions in women calf muscles. The fig tree compensates for the lack of calcium, potassium and magnesium, eliminates an unpleasant symptom.
Skin cell regeneration. Internal and external use of fig improves skin condition.
Weight loss . Wine berry assists in weight loss by removing excess fluid from the body, a mild laxative effect. Figs normalizes metabolism, enhances intestinal motility, removes toxins and toxins. To achieve weight loss, the fig tree should be consumed in moderation, replacing one of the meals with two or three fruits.

For men

Even in the Ancient East, they knew how useful figs are for men. Sweet berry used to strengthen male power. Now the range of application of the fig tree has expanded.

Heart attack prevention. Figs strengthen the walls of blood vessels, stabilize the emotional state, improve blood circulation, and normalize blood pressure. All this is a powerful prevention of early heart attack.
Potency increase. Due to the rich chemical composition, the fig tree reduces the manifestations of erectile dysfunction.

A whitish coating forms on dry fruits. This is not mold, but glucose crystals, which make dried fruits especially sweet and tasty.

Possible harm and contraindications

With a number of diseases, the fig tree will not alleviate, but will aggravate the patient's condition. Carefully study the list of these diseases before starting treatment with dry or fresh fruits. Consider the contraindications of figs.

Diseases of the pancreas. If the pancreas is inflamed, it cannot handle the large amount of sugar.
Diabetes . Figs cause an increase in blood sugar due to the high concentration of glucose.
Blood clotting disorder. Figs thin the blood - contraindicated in people with low clotting.
Gout. The fig tree contains oxalic acid - it aggravates the condition with gout.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The use of figs is contraindicated in gastritis, ulcers, colitis due to the large amount of fiber.

In these cases, the harm of figs will outweigh its benefits. Even healthy people should not abuse the fig tree. A large number of sweet fruits eaten will lead to diarrhea, bloating.

Medicine prescriptions

Depending on the disease, medicines from figs and its leaves are prepared according to different recipes. The table shows the necessary ingredients, method of preparation, indications for use.

Table - Medicines from figs

Medicine	Ingredients	Cooking	Indications for use
leaf decoction	– Dried leaves; – water	- A tablespoon of raw materials is poured into a glass of water; - boil for 5 minutes	– Diseases of the kidneys; – dermatological diseases (externally)
fruit decoction	- Figs; – water	- 3-5 fruits are poured with a glass of boiling water; - boil for 5 minutes on low heat; - grind into a homogeneous mass	- Stones in the kidneys; - thyroid disease
leaf infusion	– Dried leaves; – water	- 3 tablespoons of raw materials pour 0.5 liters of boiling water; - insist 5 hours	- Bronchial asthma; - diseases of the urinary tract and kidneys
Figs with milk	– Dry fruits; - milk	- 2-3 crushed fruits are added to a glass of milk; - boil for 2 minutes; - insist for an hour	- Cough; - sore throat; - elevated temperature
Laxative	- Figs; - raisin; - ground ginger; - nutmeg	- 100 g of dried fruits are passed through a meat grinder; - add half a teaspoon of spices; - knead the mass, form balls	Constipation (eat two balls on an empty stomach)
Fig syrup	- The fruits of the fig tree; – water; - sugar; - ginger; – lemon	- 8 fruits are cut; - pour a glass of water, boil for 20 minutes; - they take out the berries, add a glass of sugar, a teaspoon of spicy root, lemon juice to the broth; - boil for 5 minutes, pour into a bottle	- Cough; - flu; - digestive problems
Decoction of leaves in milk	- Dry leaves; - milk	- 2 tablespoons of raw materials are poured into 200 ml of hot boiled milk; - insist until cool; – filter	- Angina (gargle); - abscesses

Figs are good for the spine. With osteochondrosis, it is recommended to eat a mixture of dried fruits before going to bed for a month and a half. Serving for each meal: one fig, one prunes, five pieces of dried apricots. Additionally, you can make a decoction of fig fruits.

You can eat figs with or without the skin - the skin does not contain harmful substances. The fruits are dried unpeeled - it is difficult, and sometimes impossible, to remove the peel from a dry fruit.

Drying and storage rules

It is easier to buy ready-made dried fruits, but some people prefer to dry figs at home. The fruits are pre-sorted, washed and dried. There are several drying methods.

In the sun

Description . The traditional way of making dried fruits. When dried in the sun, the fruits do not lose their beneficial properties. The only problem is that the sweet smell attracts insects.

Instruction

Prepared fruits are cut in half, laid on a wire rack cut up.
Wrapped with gauze to protect against insects.
Leave in the sun for four to six days.
The fruits are strung on a thread, hung in a shaded place until completely dry.

In the oven

Description . Figs are dried in the oven at a minimum temperature in order to preserve as many valuable substances as possible. The fruits are constantly monitored - they will burn if they are not turned over for a long time.

Instruction

The washed and dried fruits of the fig tree are placed on the grate.
The oven is turned on at the lowest temperature, the door is left ajar.
Dry for two to three days with breaks for the night, periodically turning the fruit over.

In an electric dryer

Description . In the dryer, with a small investment of time, the most delicious dried fruits are obtained. They acquire a beautiful color, retain all vitamins and nutrients.

Instruction

Figs are cut in half, spread on a cloth napkin.
Halves of the fruits are evenly placed on the pallets of the electric dryer.
Medium-sized fruits dry for about ten hours, large ones take longer.

Properly store the fig tree - in paper or fabric bags. In jars, they cake, damp, mold. It is best to store dried fruit packs in a shady, dry, well-ventilated area.

To give more sweetness to dried fruits, figs are pre-boiled in sugar syrup. A glass of sugar is poured into three glasses of water, dissolved, figs are laid out, boiled for seven to ten minutes. The berries are thrown into a colander, allowed to drain the liquid, dried in any convenient way.

Cooking recipes

Sweet desserts and salads are prepared from figs. It goes well with poultry and meat - it gives them a unique exotic flavor. With the fruits of the fig tree, pork is stewed, turkey and duck are stuffed with them. It is not by chance that figs got the nickname of the wine berry. In southern countries, it is often used to make sweet, aromatic wine.

Compote

Description. For the preparation of compote, fresh or dried fruits are used. They are washed and dried first. Figs can be combined with other fruits by adding spices.

List of ingredients:

figs - 300 g;
sugar - 150 g;
water - 2.5 liters.

Water is poured into a saucepan, brought to a boil.
They put figs, add sugar, boil for ten minutes.
With a slotted spoon, they shift the figs into jars.
Pour in syrup, roll up.
Banks are turned upside down, wrapped in a towel.

Jam

Description . Fig jam can be used as a dessert or remedy for colds, weakened immunity. Below is basic recipe. If desired, it can be supplemented with spices, other dried fruits.

List of ingredients:

dried fig fruits - 1 kg;
granulated sugar - 1 kg;
water - one and a half glasses;
citric acid - a pinch.

Cooking sequence

Figs are washed, dried, punctured with a toothpick.
Boil water, cook figs for ten minutes.
The fruits are taken out, washed cold water, are discussed.
Boil thick syrup. Spread berries in it, boil over low heat for about 40 minutes.
Five minutes before readiness, add citric acid.
Lay out the jam in sterile jars.

The use of figs for coughs, colds, constipation and other diseases is pleasant and safe way treatment. If there are no contraindications, fig fruits will benefit when included in the daily diet.

Figs are one of the earliest fruits that man began to grow. It is him, among the many sweet fruits in the warm countries of the world, that they prefer to eat. Unfortunately, it is not available fresh all year round. Most of the fig tree we buy in dried form. But in this article we will talk about fresh figs, its beneficial properties and benefits for the human body. Let us dwell on the possible harm, how to choose and store. Yet in autumn the fruits of the fig or fig tree can be bought fresh.

How and where figs grow

Everyone knows figs. But few people saw it with their own eyes in fresh form. Unfortunately, it does not tolerate frost and does not always take root in our climate. True, it is possible to grow it in home greenhouse conditions, which significantly increases the degree of its beneficial qualities for the human body.

These sweet fruits appear thanks to the so-called fig tree (in botanical circles it is also called a fig tree or simply a fig). It belongs to the genus ficus and the mulberry family.

India and the Mediterranean countries are considered the true homeland of this plant. That is, areas with a subtropical climate. True, some believe that he still comes from Egypt, where he was grown before our era.

Externally, the fig tree is a strong tree with smooth light gray bark (grows up to 10 meters) or a sprawling shrub (usually its height is about 8 meters).

As a ficus genus, the fig tree is distinguished by large hard leaves (they are located alternately), which are dark green above and grayish below. In addition, they are always pubescent.

In the leaf axils there are inflorescences called syconia. They are hollow, pear-shaped and have holes at the top. Such holes are necessary for osblastophages, which pollinate trees. All inflorescences are divided into male (caprifigs) and female (figs).

Juicy and sweet fruits appear only from inflorescences female. They are characterized by a length of 8 centimeters, a width within a radius of up to 5 centimeters and a total weight of about 70 grams. Inside the fruit are small seeds-nuts.

Regarding the size and color, they directly depend on the variety. The most common types include yellow-green, dark blue, black, purple and yellow fruits.

A tree or shrub blooms quite often - up to three times a year. Inflorescences belonging to the masculine genus are formed from spring to late autumn. But women's - only in summer and autumn.

In the wild, figs can be observed in India, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Afghanistan, Iran, Asia Minor, on the Black Sea coast and in the Krasnodar Territory.

In mountainous areas, figs prefer height. Therefore, it can grow at an altitude of 500 to 2 thousand meters above sea level, slopes and along the coastal line of high mountain rivers.

To date, it is customary to widely cultivate the fig tree. There are fig plantations in Greece, Turkey, Italy, Tunisia, America, Portugal, as well as the European southern part of Russia. The main thing is that the temperature does not fall below -12 degrees.

When growing, it is customary to use light, even "poor" soil (not black soil) and water the plant abundantly.

Figs are planted by seeds or petioles. You can try to instill it in others fruit trees with sweet fruits. This option will additionally help to eliminate damage by pests and plant diseases.

It also became possible to plant figs in wide deep pots. Thus, the tree will perform a decorative function, grow no more than 3 meters high, and begin to bear fruit from the fifth year of life. In general, from a small tree a year you can get at least 90 pieces of fruit, it will delight the owner up to 60 full years. True, for inexperienced gardeners there is a danger of wasp nests appearing on such trees, which are often formed in capriphagos.

Figs useful properties and composition

Figs - the fruit of the fig tree or fig tree, has been known since ancient times for its beneficial properties. Even Avicenna in his writings described its effect on the human body. And all this thanks to its composition. Such a food product, although it contains a large amount of sugars, is still characterized by an excellent balance of various useful vitamins and minerals, among which are:

Protein fractions (naturally, vegetable origin);
A small amount of fat;
Carbohydrates;
pectins;
Fiber (or dietary fiber insoluble);
Retinol (vitamin A);
beta carotene;
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C);
Tocopherol (vitamin E);
B vitamins (riboflavin, thiamine, niacin);
Minerals: sodium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, calcium, magnesium and iron.

In addition, fresh figs are a good dietary product. The total calorie content of fresh fruit is only 49 kilocalories per 100 grams of product. Therefore, it is advisable to consider it low-calorie.

Since figs are rich in vitamin C, it helps to strengthen the immune system and helps protect against viruses.

Like many other fruits, this fruit contains many antioxidant compounds. Antioxidants play a very important role in maintaining health: they reduce the risk of vascular and heart diseases, inflammatory diseases, tumors and many other diseases.

Iron improves blood composition, oxygen delivery to all organs and cells of the body.

Figs benefits for the body

The benefits of eating fresh figs have been known to ancient healers. modern medicine, based on already existing records, somewhat classified all the benefits of the application. Now wine berry is recommended for:

Increasing the vitamin deficiency of the body;
Strengthening the skeletal system;
Giving the body vitality and strength;
Removal of toxins;
Increase immunity;
Cure coughs and colds;
Additional therapeutic treatment for diseases of the kidneys and liver;
Strengthening the cardiovascular system (lowering cholesterol levels, giving elasticity to blood vessels, stabilizing the work of the heart muscle);
Increasing male potency and combating sexual impotence;
Weight loss and obesity control;
Improvement of brain activity;
Rapid satisfaction of hunger;
Need to replace chocolate.

According to ancient legend, the Greeks used figs as a natural aphrodisiac. It was considered a sacred fruit that could improve reproductive functions. From a scientific point of view, this is easily explained: it contains minerals such as zinc, manganese, magnesium, which increase libido.

Medicinal properties of figs

This tasty fruit has not only purely gastronomic uses. For over 5000 years it has been used to treat various diseases. Fig fruits have good:

Anti-inflammatory

Diuretic

Antipyretic

expectorant

Disinfectants

properties. It is traditionally used to treat:

colds;

bronchitis;

Tracheitis;

Gastritis;

Eaten 5-6 pieces of fruit will help normalize blood pressure, the work of the heart muscle.

Unripe fruits contain a substance called ficin, similar to milk. After squeezing this milk out of the fetus, it is smeared with calluses, used to heal wounds, cuts, ulcers and other skin lesions, as it has antiseptic properties. By lubricating your teeth with it, you can also get rid of plaque.

To raise hemoglobin - eat 10 pieces of figs daily.

Fresh figs can help to cope with a toothache. To do this, cut the fruit in half, take out the pulp and apply it to the gums for 5-7 minutes. Repeat this 3-4 times and the toothache will gradually go away.

Oriental women use these fruits to whiten tooth enamel. To do this, you need to burn 2-3 large fruits on an open fire, collect the ashes and mix with glycerin. Brush your teeth with the resulting paste 2 times a day. After a week, as a rule, the enamel becomes whiter by several tones without any chemicals.

Fresh leaves of the tree are applied to burn wounds or to stop bleeding.

A decoction of a fig tree helps with gastritis, constipation. Use it for gargling with sore throats and colds.

A decoction of figs with milk is a proven remedy for treating coughs in children and adults. To prepare such a decoction, pour several pieces of fruit with milk and boil. Infuse for 3 hours and drink warm.

In addition, the juice of fresh fig tree leaves is used in cosmetology, adding it to various cosmetics. It has excellent antiseptic properties, helps fight premature aging.

Figs during pregnancy and breastfeeding

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, fresh fig tree fruits play an important role not only in the life of the mother, but also of the baby.

And this importance lies in the following positive characteristics:

Figs how to eat

For many consumers, fresh figs are not available. But even when it becomes possible to use non-dried fruits, certain rules must be observed and one should not forget that unripe fruits are not eaten due to the presence of a poisonous and caustic milky "milk" called ficin.

In addition, the maximum daily number of fruits should not exceed three pieces. Otherwise, the rules are the same as for all other fruits, vegetables and berries. Before you eat figs, you need to wash them.

But most often, fresh figs are used to prepare various desserts, salads, as a filling for pastries, and when cooking meat. Compotes, preserves and jams are cooked from these fruits, including in the form of blanks for the winter.

Jam with figs is not only tasty, but also healthy. This jam will come to the rescue during colds.

For those who have problems with the gastrointestinal tract, prepare a delicious mousse with cottage cheese and figs.

How to select and store figs

Due to the fact that we do not often encounter a fresh fig tree, it is very important to understand how to choose such a fruit correctly.

Therefore, when buying, you should give preference to:

Soft light yellow fruits (although it all depends on the variety);
Large fruits of the same size;
Fruits with sweet pulp (sour indicates immaturity or expiration date);
Figs packed in separate cardboard cells (so they do not wrinkle);
Fruits with smooth skin and no different kinds damage (so they rot faster).

Fresh figs are not usually stored for a long time. The maximum period is two days (this is permissible, because the harvest is often collected). When buying, it is best to leave it in a cool, dark place or put it in the refrigerator on the bottom shelf. But it is better to eat right away or make jam from it.

Contraindications

No matter how useful fresh figs are, unfortunately, doctors limit their consumption for the following categories of people:

Figs are forbidden for those diagnosed with gout;
With caution, the fruit should be taken by those who suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
Despite recommendations for consumption during pregnancy, figs are excluded from the diet of those women who are rapidly gaining weight;
Do not advise eating figs and diabetes.

Individual intolerance to the fruit is also a contraindication to use in order to avoid the occurrence of an allergic reaction.

Fig or fig tree, fig for most people is useful and can bring great benefits to the body. In season, and we sometimes sell fresh figs in the fall, buy this fruit. It will help cleanse the body, give tone, and just make it a pleasure to use it.

The benefits of figs for weight loss

Figs can be eaten both fresh and dried. The high amount of calcium, iron, potassium, along with high protein and low fat makes it one of the healthiest foods. It can be added to yogurt, cottage cheese, smoothies and other dishes.

Figs, on the one hand, even fresh, not to mention dried, are a nutritious product. But recently, nutritionists have been closely eyeing it and recommending it in weight loss diets. Why? There are several reasons:

It is rich in fiber - soluble dietary fiber;

Contains several vital vitamins and minerals;

Good source of calcium;

Helps to strengthen the immune system;

Removes harmful substances from the body;

It contains antioxidants.

All this together helps, first of all, to survive the purely psychological aspect of losing weight, when a person is forced to give up the usual food and the usual portions of food. Many during this period fall into depression and, as a result, “break down”.

The second reason is the composition of the fruit. Indeed, during a diet, which often consists of monotonous products, and there are lovers of “sit” on mono-diets, figs can replenish the body with the necessary elements. In addition, fresh figs are not high-calorie foods.

About the benefits of figs, he is also a fig or fig, says Elena Malysheva