Figs

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

Figs are the fruit of ficus tree, which is part of the mulberry family (Moraceae). They have a unique, sweet taste, soft and chewy texture, and are filled with slightly crunchy, edible seeds. Fresh figs are delicate and perishable, so are often dried to preserve them. This produces a sweet and nutritious dried fruit that can be enjoyed all year round.

There are multiple varieties of fig, all of which vary in colour and texture. The fruit is pollinated by a tiny wasp where the flowers actually bloom inside the fruit. This produces the tiny seeds inside the fruit that give it its distinct crunch. Fig trees actually never blossom with flowers. Their unique feature is a little bud-like opening called an ostiole at the top which helps the fruit develop. Due to their natural sweetness they were often used as a sweetener before the days of refined sugars.

Impressive Health Benefits

• Promotes digestive health. Figs are often recommended to nourish and tone the intestines, they act as a natural laxative because of their high fibre content.
•  Rich in antioxidants.
• May support healthy blood pressure due to potassium in figs
• May support bone health as figs are a rich source of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus.
• May improve diet quality and aid weight management due to it being high in fibre which can reduce hunger and cravings.
• Containing phenol, Omega-3, and Omega-6, figs can also help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Help control certain aspects of diabetes, by helping reduce the amount of insulin needed by those who are diabetic and need to take regular insulin injections.
• Helps support respiratory health
• Aids with healthy skin and hair.
• Some people may be allergic to figs if they react to birch pollen and latex as Figs contain these elements.

ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

The fig is mentioned in the Holy Quran here:

“I swear by the Fig and the Olive, and by Tūr, the mount of Sinai, and by this peaceful city, We have created man in the best composition” (95:1-4)