Anjeer (Dried Fig): Uses, Benefits And Nutritional value

Do you wonder what figs are? Figs, commonly known as Anjeer are the fruit of the ficus tree, a part of the mulberry family. Fresh figs fruit are usually soft from the center accompanied by crunchy seeds. This unique texture makes it a great fruit to enjoy just the way it is. Most of us remember Fig or Anjeer in the form of a dry fruit when the seeds turn more crispy and the flesh dries up. Fresh figs are seasonal and perishable. Dried Anjeer can be enjoyed all year round. They are often part of the healthy diet as a replacement to the table sugar and thus act as a natural sweeter.

A fig is a soft fruit with a thin skin that can be either green or purple. The flesh of a fig is typically red, and the entirety of the fruit is edible.

This article explores the benefits and risks associated with fig consumption. It also discusses the nutritional content of both fresh and dried figs.

The benefits of anjeer extend beyond iron, offering a myriad of nutrients and potential health perks. But how exactly can this humble fruit enhance your well-being?

Let's explore the uses and advantages of anjeer to uncover its full potential.

Nutritional Value of Anjeer

Anjeer, also known as dried fig, is packed with essential nutrients that offer numerous health benefits. It's a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, strong bones, and preventing anemia.

Anjeer is also rich in dietary fiber, promoting good digestive health by preventing constipation and aiding in weight management. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Including anjeer in your diet can be a delicious way to boost your overall health and well-being.

One small (40-gram) fresh fig contains:

• Calories: 30
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbs: 8 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Copper: 3% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Magnesium: 2% of the DV
• Potassium: 2% of the DV
• Riboflavin: 2% of the DV
• Thiamine: 2% of the DV
• Vitamin B6: 3% of the DV
• Vitamin K: 2% of the DV

Also Read:  Enhance Digestive Health With Dried Figs: a Guide

Uses Of Figs For Skin Health

Figs are amazing fruit heaped with the goodness of essential nutrients that work well for all types of skin. You can reap the benefit by eating them or using it as a DIY face mask.

Treats Warts

Anjeer is been used extensively in traditional medicine for treating various skin problems including eczema, vitiligo and psoriasis. The latex of the fig tree shows a remarkable antiwart property. The proteolytic activity of latex enzyme aids to remove warts on the body without causing any side effects.

Wrinkle Free Skin

The powerful antioxidant and anti collagenase properties of fig extract is beneficial for lessening wrinkles and makes the skin look supple. Fig extract is used widely in various skin formulations which have proven to reduce the skin melanin, water loss and sebum. Moreover, fig extract improves the skin hydration and works as a natural remedy for hyperpigmentation, acne and wrinkles.

Radiant Skin

The wealth of nutrients in anjeer like vitamin C, E and A and potent antioxidants is highly beneficial to nurture the skin and rejuvenate skin cells. Fresh anjeer is used in face masks.

For getting instant glow, make a paste of fresh figs, gently apply on your face and allow it to stay for 15 minutes and rinse well with lukewarm water, this will make the skin glow naturally and look vibrant. Furthermore, the richness of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants maintain the skin pH balance and promotes blood circulation.

Health benefits of Anjeer

Discover the numerous health benefits of Anjeer, such as aiding in weight management, preventing constipation, and being a good choice for individuals with diabetes. These dried figs can also contribute to strengthening bones and promoting heart health.

Incorporating Anjeer into your diet can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall well-being.

Helps in weight management

This high-fiber dry fruits is perfect for weight-watchers, as they need something or the other to munch on all around the day and dried Anjeer makes for a nice nutritious snack to go for! A handful of figs is enough for healthy weight management without compromising on nutrition. As per research, Anjeer has 5 grams of fiber in every three serving, which makes you feel satiated and you tend to eat less. Thereby, managing overeating issues.

Prevents constipation

Anjeer is high in fiber content and works as a natural laxative, which is very effective in treating constipation. Figs further ease out the bowel process.

Good for sugar patients

As figs are loaded with essential vitamins, minerals and fiber for the proper functioning of body. As per the studies, high potassium content in figs make it a healthy choice for people with type-II diabetes. The chlorogenic acid in Anjeer helps in controlling sugar levels.

Strengthens Bones

It is often seen that despite eating wholesome meals, there are several deficiencies that pop up from time to time. And the best way to include the essential vitamins and minerals in your diet is by adding figs to your daily menu. Figs are loaded with calcium and even small quantities can strengthen your immunity.

Figs can fix reproduction issues

Figs were considered to be a sacred fruit as it symbolised love and fertility, as per the Greek heritage. In fact, in India it was and it is still consumed with milk to improve reproductive health. It was often used as a home remedy to get rid of PMS issues in females.

Figs for heart health

Any type of imbalance in the body affects your heart health sooner or later. Research has proven that Anjeer naturally reduces the level of triglycerides in the body. The high antioxidant content in dried figs combine with blood pressure reducing elements, which prevents from heart diseases. 

Read Also: 8 Best Ways to Improve Heart Health With Dried Fig Consumption

Tips to restore Anjeer

Choosing fresh fruits is quite a daunting task. What makes it even more tedious is ensure that the one you choose is perfect and fresh. Here are few tips and tricks to narrow down your search for that perfect Anjeer!

*It is better to buy these fruits in summer and autumn, as it is time when figs are cultivated.

*Figs don’t have a long shelf life, so it is advisable to eat this fruit within a two days.

*Always choose the ones that are free from bruises.

*Figs must have a deep purplish colour.

*Another important thing to keep in mind while eating figs is that it must not be washed untill you are ready to eat it.

*Ripe figs have a mild sweet fragrance.

*Make sure that the figs are ripe, as they taste best when ripe.

* To ripe the anjeer, keep it at room temperature at a warm dry place.

How to eat Anjeer?

1. Healthy Snacking: Anjeer, or dry figs, make for a nutritious and convenient snack. Their natural sweetness satisfies sweet cravings without the need for added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

2. Baking and Cooking: Incorporate Anjeer into your baking recipes for a delightful twist. From cookies and muffins to bread and energy bars, these dried figs add a unique flavor and a chewy texture to various dishes.

3. Smoothie Boost: Enhance the nutritional content of your smoothies by tossing in a handful of Anjeer. Blending these dried figs with fruits, yogurt, and other superfoods creates a delicious and wholesome beverage.

4. Salad Toppings: Chop Anjeer into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over salads for a burst of natural sweetness, along with added fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

5. Dessert Garnish: Elevate your desserts by using Anjeer as a garnish. Whether it's topping off ice cream, puddings, or yogurt, these dried figs add both visual appeal and delightful taste.

6. Trail Mix Ingredient: Create a health-packed trail mix by combining Anjeer with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. This portable snack is perfect for on-the-go energy and nutrition.