FIGS

Figs are a delicious fruit, whether fresh or dried, and have many health benefits as well. Figs grow on the ficus carica tree which belongs to the mulberry family. Dried figs are a better concentrated source of minerals and vitamins. Figs have also been mentioned in Holy Quran in “Surah at-Teen”:

“By the fig and the olive, By mount Sinai, By this city of security (Makkah), Verily, We created man in the best stature (mould),”

The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) said “Eat figs! If I would say a certain type of fruit was sent down to us from the heavens, I would say it’s a fig because it has no seeds. It ends (cures) the piles and is useful for rheumatism.”

To treat piles naturally, soak 2-3 dried figs in milk in a coated utensil/pot overnight. Eat these soaked figs early in the morning on an empty stomach for 14-15 days.

Figs are a uniquely nutritious fruit, as they have the highest amount of calcium of any fruit. Figs are also a good source of iron, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, as well as vitamin K. They contain different types of antioxidants. Antioxidants mop up free radicals which may contribute to the development of cancer, heart disease and the visible signs of aging by damaging DNA and other body systems. The riper the fig, the more antioxidants it contains. Figs are also an excellent source of dietary fiber. The American Diabetes Association recommends figs for a high fiber treat. Fig leaves are also surprisingly healthy. Several cultures use the leaves in cooking, particularly to wrap meats and fish. Studies have shown that an extract of fig leaves increases insulin sensitivity, and may be useful for preventing diabetes. Cholesterol levels can be kept in control by pectin, a soluble fibre found in figs. 

Being high in alkaline content, they curb acid levels in the body. Studies have shown that figs lower triglyceride levels. If you're suffering from iron deficiency, figs are the way to go. They are excellent for building red blood cells, which help carry oxygen throughout the body. Eating 2-3 dried figs with 1 cup warm milk is best to improve low platelet level. They also contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that help prevent coronary heart diseases. Figs have traditionally been used as an aphrodisiac.

Caution: Figs are a very safe food but as they do have a slight laxative effect so should not be consumed in excess, particularly when dried. They also contain oxalates, a substance which can cause kidney and gall bladder stones when it becomes too concentrated in the body. Though figs do not contain a large amount but people with existing kidney problems should consume them in moderation.

Recipe:

Dried Figs Halwa

Clarified butter ------------------------ 2 tbsps

Dried Figs (chopped) ----------------- 1 cup

Saffron ------------------------------- 1 pinch

Warm milk --------------------------- 1/2 cup

Condensed milk ---------------------- 1/2 cup

Soak figs in warm milk for an hour. Grind to a fine paste with milk. Heat clarified butter in a vessel and add condensed milk, saffron, fig paste and cook on medium heat. Stir continuously till it leaves the sides of the vessel and then serve.