Dried Figs from north evoia greece
Figs have been a staple of the human diet for at least 3000 years. For the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, the fig was a staple. It was usually left to dry in the sun and was considered such an integral part of the local diet that it sometimes even replaced bread.
Fig trees even existed in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. More nutritious than all foods, the fig was the basic diet for the athletes of the Olympic Games in ancient times, before the competitions. It is rich in vitamins A, B, C, minerals such as calcium, copper, manganese, selenium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium and iron as well as antioxidants.
Dried figs are a storehouse of energy while at the same time they are valuable for our health:
They reduce blood pressure as they are rich in potassium.
They strengthen our bones thanks to their calcium content.
They fight constipation because they contain soluble fiber.
They contribute to hormonal balance thanks to the amino acid arginine.
They protect our body from various diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, various degenerative diseases, premature aging, etc. due to phenols.
They are beneficial for health because they increase energy, have tonic properties, protect the skin, have a digestive and diuretic effect, relieve asthma, bronchitis, pharyngitis, etc.
The fig is as nutritious as it is symbolic. Filled with all those tiny seeds, it came to symbolize fertility and prosperity, unity and knowledge. For some northern people, the fig is another exotic fruit and they taste it like a RARE delicacy.
But for all of us, the fig is part of our heritage.
