Friday, April 1, 2011

Figs (Ficus carica) - The Fruit

Figs (Ficus carica) are oval to pear shaped fruits with a thin edible outer skin, mushy pink pulp, and tiny white seeds.





Health Benefits of Figs:
  • Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer
  • Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
  • Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
  • Osteoporosis Protection
  • Stroke Prevention
    *Some of these health benefits are due to the nutrients highly concentrated in Figs, and may not necessarily be related to Figs.
Natural vitmains, minerals, and nutrients found in Figs: Vitamin B6 | Calcium | Dietary Fiber | Potassium |

How to choose Figs: Figs are best when they are mushy and soft, but you can buy figs firm and allow them to ripen at home. Look for figs with a good smell, and few blemishes.

Climate and origin: Figs originated in Asia minor and are one of the first fruits to be cultivated. Figs do best in warm temperate to sub-tropical climates, but there are some hardy varieties which can grow in colder climates. (zones 5-10 in the U.S.)

Taste: Figs have a subtle fragrant taste and the degree of sweetness varies widely by variety.

Miscellaneous information: The most popular fig for drying and shipping, Black Mission Figs get their name from Spanish Missionaries who introduced figs to San Diego California in the late 1800s.