Figs, also known as Anjeer, are small fruits that belong to the mulberry family. They are scientifically termed Ficus carica. They are extremely sweet and succulent in taste and can be eaten as fresh or dried fruits. Dried anjeer benefits are numerous. They are known to have ample amounts of antioxidants, nutrients, fibres and natural sugar. Even Ayurveda mentions many therapeutic Anjeer benefits and uses the latex of the fruit as medicine.
Nutritional Value of Dried Anjeer [1]
| Nutrient | Quantity per 100g |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 73.50% |
| Protein | 4.67% |
| Fat | 0.56% |
| Dietary Fibre | 3.68% |
| Energy | 317.78 kcal |
What are the Nutrients Found in Dried Figs?
Ayurveda mentions numerous anjeer benefits. Dried figs are highly rich in soluble fibres and essential nutrients. They contain a good amount of minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, selenium and zinc. They are also rich in antioxidant flavonoids such as lutein, tannins, chlorogenic acids, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin K and help the body fight free radical damage. Thus, anjeer benefits for health are immense.
What is the Ayurvedic Perspective on Dried Anjeer?
According to Ayurveda, Anjeer is a sweet and astringent fruit that helps to balance Vata and Pitta Dosha in the body. Ayurveda mentions many anjeer benefits and properties, such as diuretic, expectorant, and laxative properties. Figs are immensely beneficial in removing toxins from the body and treating diseases such as high blood pressure, constipation, piles, digestive issues, etc. Anjeer nutrients make it a wholesome supplement for overall health management.
How do Figs Help to Boost Digestive Health?
Figs or dried Anjeer are one of the best Ayurvedic remedies for treating chronic constipation. In constipation, the movement of food in the digestive tract decreases and the stool passes with difficulty. One of the many benefits of dried anjeer is its property of being a natural laxative, vastly rich in soluble fibres. They help increase the water content and add bulk to the stool, promoting bowel movements and relieving constipation. In addition, they are also highly effective in reducing the transit time of bowel movements and the efforts required to pass the stool. Ayurveda mentions other such anjeer benefits for overall health.
According to Ayurveda, constipation is caused due to an aggravation of the Vata Dosha in the body and dried Anjeer is one of the best natural foods to pacify Vata Dosha and boost overall digestion. Figs also help to replenish and soothe the intestines, aiding in the treatment of many digestive disorders such as indigestion, stomach flu, stomach pain, etc.
How to Use Anjeer to Boost Digestion?
To relieve constipation and improve digestion:
- Soak 3-4 pieces of dried Anjeer in water overnight
- Drain the water in the morning and eat them on an empty stomach
- You may also add honey to them to add taste
Providing relief from constipation is one of the many benefits of dried anjeer.
What are the Other Benefits of Eating Dried Figs?
The following are some of the other benefits of consuming anjeer:
- Eases Digestion [3]
One of the anjeer benefits is its ability to enhnace digestion. Due to its dietary fiber content, which makes stools heavier, anjeer is beneficial for digestion. Consuming soaked Anjeer on an empty stomach relieves constipation and promotes bowel movement.
- Improves Heart Health [4]
The benefits of dried anjeer include its assistance in improving blood pressure and blood fat levels. This consequently improves the heart health and lowers the risk of heart disease.
- Helps in Weight Loss [1]
Anjeer has a high fiber content, and low-calorie count, and helps with blood sugar regulation. It also aids with digestion. The journey towards weight loss is one of the best anjeer uses.
- Enhances Bone Health [5]
Calcium, which is necessary for strong bones, can be found in dried figs. It is also high in phosphorus, which helps to build new bones and encourages bone regrowth if a bone is damaged or deteriorates.
- Controls Blood Sugar [4]
One of the many advantages of anjeer dry fruit is its ability to manage blood sugar levels. Anjeer is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which lowers blood sugar. It decreases blood pressure by expanding blood arteries, which facilitates the heart’s easier blood-pumping action.
- Boosts Immune System [1]
Ayurveda mentions numerous anjeer uses for health. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that boosts immunity, is abundant in anjeer. White blood cells are produced more often when vitamin C is present and they help fight infections and illnesses. Frequent use of anjeer can strengthen the immune system and reduce the chance of getting common colds and the flu.
- Improves Skin Health [6]
Antioxidants found in anjeer are good for skin health. These antioxidants fight against the free radicals and prevent skin cell damage. Using an Anjeer-containing lotion improves skin moisture and reduces melanin levels.
- Cures Respiratory Problems [3]
The expectorant quality of anjeer fruit makes it useful for treating respiratory conditions including bronchitis and cough. By clearing the airways and making breathing easier, it encourages the production and evacuation of phlegm.
Side Effects of Anjeer [7]
The following are some of the anjeer side effects:
- When anjeer leaf extract is taken in excess, it may harm the liver.
- Additional research has also shown that if the recommended dosage is exceeded, the leaves of this plant exhibit moderate toxicity.
Conclusion
Dried figs are one of the best natural remedies to relieve constipation and boost the overall digestive health of the person. The advantages of eating anjeer daily can also yield many other health benefits. They help to regulate blood pressure levels, improve heart health, boost skin health, etc. They can also be used as an antacid as they help ease constipation.
Disclaimer: This article is from a health and wellness perspective only and does not constitute medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a trained medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
Takeaway:
Dried figs are one of the best natural remedies to relieve constipation and boost the overall digestive health of the person. Daily consumption of dried Anjeer can also yield many other health benefits. They help to regulate blood pressure levels, improve heart health, boost skin health, etc. They can also be used as an antacid as they help ease constipation.
Disclaimer: The results depend upon individual body constitution.
This article is reviewed by Dr. Sunanda Ranade
FAQs:
How to eat dried anjeer as per Ayurveda?
According to Ayurveda, eating two to three soaked Anjeer in the morning causes a bowel movement, which relieves constipation.
How are figs for constipation beneficial?
Because of their high soluble fiber content, figs have a natural laxative effect. Thus, relieving the constricted bowel movement.
What are the side effects of dried figs?
When discussing dried figs side effects, it’s important to note that there are hardly any side effects, although some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
What happens if we eat anjeer daily?
Ayurveda mentions soaked anjeer benefits. According to Ayurveda, eating two or three soaked Anjeer in the morning causes a bowel movement, which relieves constipation. Anjeer includes dietary fiber, which aids in improved digestion when consumed regularly.
Is anjeer good for men?
Ayurveda lists down several dried anjeer benefits for men’s health. Men who regularly consume anjeer experience improved sexual health and increased muscle mass.
Is anjeer good for females?
The advantages of anjeer dry fruit consumption are numerous for women’s health. Women’s hormone levels are improved by consuming soaked anjeer, particularly during menstruation and menopause. Anjeer aids in low bone density, a common problem experienced by women.
Who should not eat anjeer?
Given that one of the anjeer side effects is lowering blood sugar, patients on blood thinners should consult with their doctors before incorporating anjeer into their regular diet.
How to eat anjeer for best results?
Consumed in any form, anjeer benefits for health are numerous. But for the finest results, dry figs should be taken overnight after being soaked in water. Consuming soaked anjeer while you’re empty will benefit your health the most.
References
- Soni N, Mehta S, Satpathy G, Gupta RK. Estimation of nutritional, phytochemical, antioxidant and antibacterial activity of dried fig (Ficus carica). J Pharmacogn Phytochem. 2014 July.
- Phytochemical Composition and Health Benefits of Figs (Fresh and Dried): A Review of Literature from 2000 to 2022. January 2023
- Mawa S, Husain K, Jantan I. Ficus carica L. (Moraceae): Phytochemistry, Traditional Uses and Biological Activities.Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2013
- Alamgeer, Iman S, Asif H, Saleem M. Evaluation of antihypertensive potential of Ficus carica fruit. Pharm Biol. 2017 Jan
- Ficus carica and Bone Health: A Systematic Review. November 2018
- Khan H, Naveed A, Ali A. Effects of Cream Containing Ficus carica L. Fruit Extract on Skin Parameters: In vivo Evaluation. Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences.
- Li Z, Yang Y, Liu M, Zhang C, Shao J, Hou X, et al. A comprehensive review on phytochemistry, bioactivities, toxicity studies, and clinical studies on Ficus carica Linn. leaves. Biomed. Pharmacother. 2021 May
