Figs have been used for hundreds of years for their health benefits, sweet taste, and because the fig tree (F. Religiosa) is a very unique and beautiful plant. It's an inverted flower tree, which can bloom from the inside out.

Figs were used in the past as sweeteners and now that people are trying to avoid processed sugars, fig is back on high demand.

Figs are rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and copper and are a good source of antioxidant vitamins A and K.

High blood pressure often results from a potassium imbalance, generally by a potassium imbalance caused by eating too much sodium and not enough potassium. 

Figs are a natural way to balance potassium and that's why it's said that figs help improve heart health, lower cholesterol, and lower high blood pressure.

The milk extracted from the fig can be used directly on the skin as a topical ointment to help with warts and skin tumors.

Figs are high on fiber, they can help with constipation as well as with diarrhea. They balance the digestive tract both ways.

Because of their high content of potassium and calcium, they are said to help with osteoporosis.

The leaf of the fig or the entire fruit including the leaf can also be used as a topical cream to help with psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. The fig and leaf can be extracted and used as a liquid ointment or grinded with a mortar and pestle until forming a paste to apply topically on the skin.

Figs have also been used, historically, to enhance conscious awareness. This is why they are known for being the "religious Ficus" or the "sacred Ficus." Prayer beads are made from the seeds of fig tree because Buddha reached his enlightenment under a fig tree. There's more than just symbolism behind this important event.