Also known as mother-in-law, devil’s tongue prickly pear, oriental fig, prickly fig has many benefits from digestive health to heart health due to its nutritional properties. It is also preferred in diets because it is a low-calorie fruit. Indian figs can be eaten fresh as well as consumed dry and are also used in making molasses, jams, desserts and wine.
Prickly figs are a nutritious fruit that can provide many health benefits. Some benefits of prickly figs:
- Its high fiber content regulates the digestive system and prevents digestive problems such as constipation.
- It is rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals and may protect against the harmful effects of cancer-causing free radicals.
- Potassium and fiber in its content protects heart health and regulates blood pressure.
- It is rich in vitamin A and antioxidants that support skin health. It can also increase the elasticity and moisture of the skin.
- It is a low-calorie fruit and can help control weight when consumed in diets.
- Calcium and magnesium minerals in its content support bone health and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Vitamin C in its content strengthens the immune system and increases the body’s resistance to infections.
Although prickly figs have many benefits, it is important to consult your doctor about possible side effects and allergic reactions before consuming.
What are the benefits of prickly fig leaf?
The prickly fig leaf is considered an herb that has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes for centuries. The benefits of prickly fig leaf include:
- Blood sugar control: It can help regulate blood sugar. Some of the compounds it contains may help lower blood sugar levels.
- digestive health: It can help support digestive health. The fibers and some compounds it contains are effective against digestive problems such as constipation by increasing bowel movements.
- Antioxidant effects: Due to its antioxidant properties, it can protect the body from free radicals. These free radicals can damage cells and cause aging and various diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory: It can help relieve symptoms of inflammation. Some of the compounds it contains are beneficial in various inflammatory conditions such as joint pain by reducing inflammation in the body.
- Heart health: It can help heart health. Some of the compounds it contains may help lower blood pressure and keep cholesterol levels in check.
It can be consumed as a prickly fig leaf tea or mixed with other herbal teas. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using the leaf for medicinal purposes.
How to eat prickly figs?
Prickly figs are usually consumed fresh. After peeling the fruit can be used raw or with flavorings in salads, desserts or other dishes. Also, dried prickly figs can be chewed or brewed with hot water to make a tea. However, caution should be exercised in the consumption of prickly figs. It can cause allergic reactions for some people and may contain toxins in some areas. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before consuming fresh prickly figs.
How to apply prickly fig to the skin?
The application of prickly fig to the skin can be carried out with the use of leaves or fruits. It is recommended to use the water obtained by boiling the leaves in skin care. The gel obtained after boiling the prickly fig can be used by applying it to the skin. This gel moisturizes the skin and helps to remove wrinkles. This water obtained from prickly fig leaves can help treat skin blemishes, sores and itching. In addition, the prickly fig fruit is thought to be beneficial to the skin. Thanks to the antioxidants it contains, it can rejuvenate the skin, even out the skin tone and repair skin damage. Consuming fruits can also contribute to a healthy diet of the skin. However, before using it in skin care, it is important to consult a specialist and take precautions against the possibility of an allergic reaction.
Does prickly fig make you gain weight?
Prickly figs are generally a low-calorie fruit and do not cause weight gain. 100 grams of fresh prickly figs contain about 70 calories and provide a feeling of fullness thanks to its low fat and high fiber content. However, prickly figs are rich in sugar and can raise blood sugar when consumed in large quantities. For this reason, it is recommended that people with diabetes or those who want to keep their blood sugar under control should limit their consumption. It does not cause weight gain when consumed as part of a healthy diet. However, like any food, it can cause weight gain when consumed excessively. Therefore, it is recommended to be consumed in appropriate portions and in a balanced diet.
Where do prickly figs grow?
Prickly figs are usually grown in countries where the Mediterranean climate prevails. It can be found naturally in countries such as Turkey, Iran, Italy, Spain, Greece, Morocco and Tunisia. It grows in regions with a Mediterranean climate. However, in recent years, prickly figs have been cultivated and started to be produced in different regions. Prickly figs grow naturally in Mersin, Tarsus and Anamur regions of Turkey.
What month is the prickly fig?
Prickly figs vary in different species and regions, but are usually harvested in late summer and autumn. It is generally harvested from the end of August to the beginning of October in Turkey. In other countries, the harvest time may vary depending on the region and climatic conditions. Hot climatic conditions are necessary for the prickly fig to bear fruit. Fruit formation begins with the flowering of the tree, and fruit ripening takes about 100 days.