The fig is a highly perishable fruit. Unless you live in a warm climate where figs flourish, you are likely to meet it most often in dried form. This wholesome practical food has been a staple for thousands of years. The Old Testament mentions it often and favorably, and it was a mainstay of the armies of the Roman Empire.
Figs are extremely rich in minerals. Their iron content makes them a good blood builder and useful in cases of anemia. Figs are also very effective as a laxative; but if your gastrointestinal tract is delicate, avoid this remedy, for the hundred of tiny seeds in each fig are indigestible and can be irritating. Dried figs are an excellent candy substitute for children; best results are derived if you start giving figs as snacks at a very early age, before the child begins to have preconceived ideas about what a sweet should look and taste like. As with all dried fruit, careful tooth brushing is imperative, as the sugar tends to lodge between the teeth.
When purchasing dried figs, make certain that sulfur has not been used to speed up the drying and to preserve color and that the fig has not been dipped in sugar (to sweeten it) or water (to make it weight more and seem moister). Properly dried figs have no need of these unhealthful methods.
