Origin: Fig is one of the oldest fruit consumed by human beings. It is believed to have been originated in northern Asia Minor. It was also really close to Greeks and Romans in the earlier times. It is believed to have spread with the Greeks and the Romans throughout the Mediterranean region after Asia. Spanish and France missionaries got the fig to California in early 1500. This variety of fig was called Mission Fig. Later, fig spread to China and England.
There is also mention of Fig and fig trees in the Bible, in both the old and new testaments. There are also stories that the forbidden fruit was not an apple but was Fig. The remains of the fig were also found during excavations of Neolithic sites from 5000 B.C. They also remain of culinary use of fig and fig trees in different archaeological sites. This fruit also holds a special place in different religions. It is considered very auspicious in religions like Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, and Buddhism. Fig is considered to represent fertility, peace, and prosperity. Ancient Olympians were given a fig to restore power and energy. The prophet Mohammed also mentioned fig as the one fruit he would most wish to see in paradise.
Scientifically: Fig is a deciduous tree and is perennial. It can live as long as 100 years and grow up to 50 feet tall. The typical height is 10 to 30 feet. It has twisty branches which spread wider than the tree height. Figs can grow in the hot, dry climate. The fruit ripes when the sun is at its peak.
Fig is botanically called Ficus carica. It belongs to the species of flowering plant in the mulberry family. It is a part of the stem that turns into a sac filled with a flower which grows inside.
Fig has a nutty flavor and has tiny seeds of the fruit.
Usage: Figs can be eaten fresh or dried, and used in jam-making, marmalade, purees, etc. It is used in making desserts. The fig fruit and leaves are also used to make medicine. Fig fruit is a great laxative to relieve constipation. Fig LEAF is used for diabetes, high cholesterol, and skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo. It also helps in regulating blood pressure and cholesterol level.
Figs are also a good source of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. It helps in improving skin texture and improves blood circulation in the blood.
Below are some DIYs with Fig for beautiful skin and hair:
- Take a few figs and mash them finely. Add a teaspoon of honey to make a sticky paste. Apply this mix on your face and keep it on for 15 minutes. Wash it off later. This remedy helps in removing acne.
- Mash some figs coarsely, add some powdered sugar to it. Mix them together and add some lemon to make a thick paste. This remedy works as an excellent defoliator.
- Mix a tablespoon of fig puree with a tablespoon of yogurt and half a teaspoon of honey. Mix them together and apply on the face for 15 minutes. This remedy helps in getting rid of pigmentation and blemishes and get smooth even-toned skin.
- Soak 4-5 figs overnight in a bowl of water. Mash them with fingers and rub this paste on the scalp. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then shampoo the hair. This remedy helps in moisturizing the scalp and strengthens the hair.
- Take a teaspoon of fig oil and add a tablespoon of coconut oil to it. This remedy helps in boosting hair health and growth.