Figs, beauty remedy

The fig, scientific name Ficus carica, is a fruit tree of the Moraceae family. It produces figs that are considered improperly its fruits, the real fruits are actually the seeds inside the edible pulp, sweet and succulent. In a previous post, we have already analyzed the nutritional and healthy properties of the fig, but today we will see its external use as a beauty remedy. The fig pulp, when applied on the face, acts with antioxidant, moisturizing and rejuvenating properties. It is able to fight acne, hyperpigmentation but also wrinkles. In fact, the fig acts by inhibiting the collagenases, an enzyme that can destroy the collagen fibers and leads to wrinkles, and this action is proven by scientific studies (Khan et al, Indian J Pharm Sci, 2014 but also Ghimeray et al, Clin Cosmet Investing Dermatol). The recipe of an amazing fig skin mask? Here you go, crush the pulp of a fig and add a tablespoon of yogurt to make the mask creamy. Apply on the face for ten minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. But the fig pulp can also be applied directly on the chapped lips, it will act as a moisturizer! Moreover, you can use the fig pulp to create a great homemade scrub. Try to add a teaspoon of sugar to the crushed pulp of a fig, pour a vegetable oil, like jojoba or grapeseed oil, until you get the desired consistency and massage this mixture on the skin. Finally, as a beauty remedy, also the fig latex is used, which can be applied locally to treat warts with benefits such as the absence of side effects and short duration of treatment, this use is also evidenced by scientific studies (Bohlooli et al, Int J Dermatol, 2007). However, it is good to use fig latex only on the warts and not to apply it on all the skin despite a popular tradition that claims that the latex of the fig is an ally for a beautiful tan, in fact the latex has a caustic effect and could burn and irritate the skin when exposed to the sun.