Anjeer
Anjeer
Anjeer is a fruit that grows on the Ficus tree. These trees are deciduous and can grow up to a height of 7 to 10m. Anjeer fruits have a unique taste and are sweet and chewy.
Anjeer helps manage diabetes by increasing insulin secretion due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As per Ayurveda, consuming 2-3 soaked Anjeer in the morning helps to relieve constipation by promoting bowel movement due to its Rechana (laxative) properties. Regular consumption of Anjeer also improves digestion as it contains dietary fiber.
Anjeer is good for managing skin problems due to the presence of antioxidants. Applying Anjeer paste along with honey on the face can help improve skin health and decrease melanin.
Anjeer leaf might help lower blood sugar levels. So, it is advisable to consult a physician while taking Anjeer along with antidiabetic drugs[2][4].
Anjeer helps manage diabetes by increasing insulin secretion due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As per Ayurveda, consuming 2-3 soaked Anjeer in the morning helps to relieve constipation by promoting bowel movement due to its Rechana (laxative) properties. Regular consumption of Anjeer also improves digestion as it contains dietary fiber.
Anjeer is good for managing skin problems due to the presence of antioxidants. Applying Anjeer paste along with honey on the face can help improve skin health and decrease melanin.
Anjeer leaf might help lower blood sugar levels. So, it is advisable to consult a physician while taking Anjeer along with antidiabetic drugs[2][4].
What are the synonyms of Anjeer?
Ficus carica, Fig, Angir, Anjura, Tenatti, Anjuru, Anjra, Fagari, Angira[1].
What is the source of Anjeer?
Plant Based
Benefits of Anjeer
Modern Science View
Anjeer might help manage Diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces the breakdown of carbohydrates and prevents the damage of pancreatic cells. This enhances insulin secretion and lowers blood sugar levels. The high potassium content in Anjeer also helps regulate blood sugar levels in the body[4][5].
Modern Science View
Anjeer might help manage constipation due to its laxative property. It helps to loosen stools and promote bowel movement[5].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, constipation is a condition caused particularly by the aggravation of Vata dosha. Factors like eating fast or junk food, excess intake of coffee, tea, sleeping late at night, high-stress levels and depression aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Anjeer helps manage constipation due to its Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative) properties. It prevents Vata from aggravating and leads to easy passage of stools.
Tips for using Anjeer in constipation.
1. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer or as directed by the physician.
2. Soak them in water overnight in a small bowl.
3. Drain the water from Anjeer in the morning.
4. Eat these soaked figs along with honey on an empty stomach to get good results in constipation.
Tips for using Anjeer in constipation.
1. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer or as directed by the physician.
2. Soak them in water overnight in a small bowl.
3. Drain the water from Anjeer in the morning.
4. Eat these soaked figs along with honey on an empty stomach to get good results in constipation.
How effective is Anjeer?
Insufficient evidence
Constipation, Diabetes
Precautions when using Anjeer
Allergy
Modern Science View
People sensitive to latex, mulberry or weeping fig might experience allergic reactions while using Anjeer. So, it is advisable to avoid its consumption or consult a physician before using Anjeer (fig)[6].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Anjeer (fresh or dried) is safe to be taken in food amounts during breastfeeding. But, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Anjeer (Fig) during breastfeeding[3][6].
Minor Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Anjeer (fig), due to the presence of certain constituents (like furocoumarins), might increase the risk of bleeding when taken along with certain drugs (blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs). So, it is generally advisable to consult a physician before taking Anjeer with such drugs[6].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Anjeer (Fig) leaf lowers blood sugar levels. Taking it along with insulin or any other antidiabetic drug might cause too much lowering of blood sugar levels. So, it is advisable to consult a physician and regularly monitor blood sugar levels while taking Anjeer with antidiabetic drugs[3][6].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
It is advisable for diabetic patients to regularly monitor blood sugar levels while using Anjeer, as it might cause too much lowering of blood sugar levels in some cases[3][6].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Anjeer (fresh or dried) is safe to be taken in food amounts during pregnancy. But, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Anjeer (Fig) during pregnancy[3][6].
How to use Anjeer
1. Soaked Anjeer
a. Tips for using soaked Anjeer.
b. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer or as directed by the physician.
c. Soak them in water overnight in a small bowl.
d. Next morning, drain the water and consume soaked Anjeer along with honey.
e. Consume them on an empty stomach to get the best results in constipation.
2. Fig leaves Capsules
a. Take 1 capsule or as directed by the physician.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water after taking food once or twice a day to get rid of constipation.
a. Tips for using soaked Anjeer.
b. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer or as directed by the physician.
c. Soak them in water overnight in a small bowl.
d. Next morning, drain the water and consume soaked Anjeer along with honey.
e. Consume them on an empty stomach to get the best results in constipation.
2. Fig leaves Capsules
a. Take 1 capsule or as directed by the physician.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water after taking food once or twice a day to get rid of constipation.
Benefits of Anjeer
FAQs about Anjeer benefits
Precautions when using Anjeer
Allergy
Modern Science View
Anjeer (Fig) contains latex that might cause irritation to the skin in some cases if not removed promptly. So, it is generally advisable to consult a physician before applying Fig paste on the skin[14].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Skin rashes[3].
How to use Anjeer
Anjeer paste
a. Take 1-2 Anjeer or as per your requirement
b. Extract its fleshy part from it.
c. Mash it and add a teaspoon of honey.
d. Mix well and apply evenly on the skin.
e. Keep this paste for 5-10 minutes and wash it off with normal water to get healthy rejuvenated skin.
a. Take 1-2 Anjeer or as per your requirement
b. Extract its fleshy part from it.
c. Mash it and add a teaspoon of honey.
d. Mix well and apply evenly on the skin.
e. Keep this paste for 5-10 minutes and wash it off with normal water to get healthy rejuvenated skin.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, dried Anjeer (figs) are packed with essential minerals (like potassium, calcium, iron), antioxidants and dietary fibres that helps to improve health[5].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, dried figs are good for you as they help maintain a good digestive system and provide internal strength to the body.
Modern Science View
Yes, we can consume Anjeer soaked in water. Soaked figs are good for constipation related problems.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Anjeer soaked water is beneficial for health. It manages some problems like constipation and piles.
Modern Science View
Dried Anjeer (figs) can be stored in a sealed packet at room temperature. You can also keep them in the refrigerator for long term storage.
Modern Science View
Yes, Figs/Anjeer are a good source of potassium. Potassium is an important mineral required to regulate blood pressure. Diet rich in potassium may help reduce water retention, protect against stroke and prevent kidney stones.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer can be used for the management of Hypertension due to its antioxidant property. It helps to relax the narrowed blood vessels. It also has a calcium chain blocking property due to which it slows down the movement of calcium in the blood vessels. It helps the heart to pump blood easily by widening blood vessels and thus lowers blood pressure[7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer (fig) is considered to be beneficial in the management of liver problems due to its antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. The antioxidants present in Anjeer fight against the free radical and prevent liver cell damage[8].
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Anjeer in hemorrhage. However, Anjeer fruit juice along with honey had been used as a remedy to manage Haemorrhage[9].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Anjeer can be used in haemorrhage or excessive bleeding conditions because it has Kashaya(astringent) and Sita(cold). These properties help to constrict blood capillaries and control the bleeding.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer fruit is beneficial in managing respiratory problems such as bronchitis and cough due to its expectorant property. It promotes the secretion and removal of sputum and clears the air passages and ease breathing[9].
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer is good for digestion as it contains dietary fiber which increases the bulk of stools. It also promotes bowel movement and keeps the digestive tract healthy[9].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Anjeer is good for digestion when it is added to the diet. Eating soaked Anjeer on an empty stomach gives relief in constipation and helps in bowel movement because of its Rechana(laxative) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer might help manage piles due to its laxative property. The paste of Anjeer fruits loosens the stools and promotes bowel movement. It also has an anti-inflammatory property that might reduce the inflammation of tissues and veins[10].
Ayurvedic View
Piles are known as Arsh in Ayurveda which is caused by an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. It involves impairment of all the three doshas, mainly Vata dosha. Aggravated Vata results in low digestive fire, leading to persistent constipation. This leads to swelling in the veins of the rectum area and causes pile mass. Anjeer helps manage piles due to its Rechana (laxative) property. It reduces the symptoms of piles by promoting easy passage of stools.
Tips for using Anjeer in piles.
1. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer or as directed by the physician.
2. Soak them in water overnight in a small bowl.
3. Drain the water in the morning.
4. Eat the soaked figs along with honey on an empty stomach to get the best result in Piles.
Tips for using Anjeer in piles.
1. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer or as directed by the physician.
2. Soak them in water overnight in a small bowl.
3. Drain the water in the morning.
4. Eat the soaked figs along with honey on an empty stomach to get the best result in Piles.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer might help improve sexual health due to its aphrodisiac property. It increases sexual desire and improves behavior[10].
Ayurvedic View
Sexual problems generally occur due to an imbalance of Vata dosha. Anjeer helps manage sexual problems due to its Vata balancing and Vrshya (aphrodisiac) properties.
Tips for using Anjeer.
1. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer and soak them in milk overnight.
2. Consume them the next morning, preferably on an empty stomach to get a quick boost in energy.
Tips for using Anjeer.
1. Take 2-4 pieces of dried Anjeer and soak them in milk overnight.
2. Consume them the next morning, preferably on an empty stomach to get a quick boost in energy.
Modern Science View
Anjeer is beneficial in managing arthritis due to its high mineral content. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which inhibit the activity of inflammatory proteins. This reduces the joint pain and inflammation associated with Rheumatoid arthritis[11].
Ayurvedic View
Arthritis is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha and leads to certain symptoms like pain, stiffness or inflammation. Anjeer helps manage arthritis due to its Tridosha (including Vata) balancing and Balya (strength provider) properties. It helps to reduce the symptoms of arthritis and provide strength to the bones and joints, thus providing relief.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer might help manage fever due to its antipyretic property. It helps to lower down the body temperature and gives relief in fever[10].
Modern Science View
Diabetics can include Anjeer in their diet but it is advised to keep the quantity in check. Anjeer or figs are loaded with fiber, they help with proper insulin function in diabetes patients. However, blood sugar levels should be checked closely while taking dried Anjeer as it has high sugar content and may increase blood sugar levels in the short term.
Modern Science View
Anjeer or fig is an exceptional source of minerals, vitamins and dietary fiber[15]. It is one of the best natural laxatives you can add to your diet. Anjeer or figs when soaked in water provide better health benefits. Pre-soaking helps to break down the soluble fiber content present in figs. It also helps to delay glucose absorption in the body[16]. However, fresh figs are lower in calories and sugar content, as the sugar becomes concentrated when the fruits are dried.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer when taken with milk can help to get rid of constipation or digestive problems.
How to take:
- Take a few Anjeer and soak them in the milk for 5 to 7 hours.
- After that, remove the seeds from the soaked Anjeer
- Boil the seedless Anjeer with the milk properly.
- Pour the mixture into a cup and drink the milk while it is warm.
- You can even eat these Anjeer as it will give you extra fiber.
How to take:
- Take a few Anjeer and soak them in the milk for 5 to 7 hours.
- After that, remove the seeds from the soaked Anjeer
- Boil the seedless Anjeer with the milk properly.
- Pour the mixture into a cup and drink the milk while it is warm.
- You can even eat these Anjeer as it will give you extra fiber.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer is beneficial for skin health due to the presence of antioxidants. These antioxidants fight against the free radicals and prevent skin cell damage. Applying a cream containing Anjeer increases the skin hydration and decreases the melanin content of the skin[9][12].
Ayurvedic View
Skin problems such as burning or any kind of infection occur due to an imbalance of any of the three doshas, especially Pitta dosha. Anjeer helps manage skin problems due to its Pitta balancing property. It also provides a cooling effect to the affected area due to its Sita (cold) property.
Tips for using Anjeer (Fig) on skin.
1. Take 1-2 Anjeer or as per your requirement.
2. Extract the fleshy part from it.
3. Mash it and add a teaspoon of honey to it.
4. Mix well and apply evenly on the skin.
5. Keep this paste for 5-10 minutes and wash it off with normal water to get healthy rejuvenated skin.
Tips for using Anjeer (Fig) on skin.
1. Take 1-2 Anjeer or as per your requirement.
2. Extract the fleshy part from it.
3. Mash it and add a teaspoon of honey to it.
4. Mix well and apply evenly on the skin.
5. Keep this paste for 5-10 minutes and wash it off with normal water to get healthy rejuvenated skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, Anjeer might help in managing HPV infection-induced skin warts due to its antiviral property. Applying Anjeer latex on the affected area inhibits the growth of viruses and deactivates Human papillomavirus (HPV)[13].
References
- Balkrishnan A. Anjeer. Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya. Danik Bhaskar. 2017.
- Chawla A, Kaur R, Sharma AK. Ficus carica Linn.: A review on its pharmacognostic, phytochemical and pharmacological aspects. 2012;1(4): 215-232.
- WebMD. Anjeer: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Ahmad MZ, Ali M, Mir SR. Anti-diabetic activity of Ficus carica L. stem barks and isolation of two new flavonol esters from the plant by using spectroscopical techniques. Asian Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences 3(18) 2013, 22-28.
- Oh HG, Lee HY, Seo MY, et al. Effects of Ficus carica paste on constipation induced by a high-protein feed and movement restriction in beagles.Lab Anim Res.2011;27(4):275-281.
- Ulbricht CE. Natural Standard: Herb and Supplement Guide. An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
- Alamgeer, Iman S, Asif H, et al. Evaluation of antihypertensive potential of Ficus carica fruit.Pharm Biol.2017; 55(1): 1047–1053.
- Tchombe L, Louajri A. Therapeutic Effects of Ficus Carica Leaves: A Brief Review. ARPN Journal of Science and Technology.2015;5(1):37-41.
- Mawa S, Husain K, Jantan I. Ficus carica L. (Moraceae): Phytochemistry, Traditional Uses and Biological Activities.Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2013, Article ID 974256.
- Al-Snafi AE. Nutritional and pharmacological importance of Ficus carica - A review. IOSR Journal Of Pharmacy. 2017.7(3):33-48.
- Hj Idrus RB, Veronica Sainik QA, Ansari AS, et al. Ficus carica and Bone Health: A Systematic Review. Sains Malaysiana. 2018;47(11): 2741–2755.
- 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.2014;7(6):560-564.
- Ghanbari A, Gresley AL, Naughton D, et al. Biological activities of Ficus carica latex for potential therapeutics in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related cervical cancers. Sci Rep 9, 1013 (2019).
- Sruthi B, Sunny G, Naz H, et al. Diuretic activity of ethanolic extracts of ficus carica. Fruits. International Journal of Research in Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics.2012.1(1):23-26.
- Subash S, Essa MM, Al-Asmi A, Al-Adawi S, Vaishnav R. Chronic dietary supplementation of 4% figs on the modification of oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease transgenic mouse model. Biomed Res Int. 2014;2014:546357
- Peterson JM, Montgomery S, Haddad E, Kearney L, Tonstad S. Effect of consumption of dried California mission figs on lipid concentrations. Ann Nutr Metab. 2011;58(3):232-238.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.