Fig Cure for Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory disease characterized by constriction of the airways, causing breathing difficulty. Asthma is usually triggered by an allergic response to an allergen that causes the airways and the lungs to become inflamed and clogged with excess mucus. Figs have been known to improve respiration.

Figs and Asthma

• The scientific name of the fig is Ficus carica. Fig trees natively grow in Asia and the Mediterranean. Its pear-shaped fruit contains a rich, moist pulp. Figs are highly nutritious, and contain little fat, carbohydrates and protein. Figs' most abundant component is its natural sugar, making it delicious to eat alone or in various sweet recipes.

  For asthma, figs do not cause an allergic response. Its nutrition values as well as its low content of fats, carbohydrates and proteins promote respiratory health and help to alleviate breathing difficulties.

Fresh Versus Dried Figs

• Both fresh and dried figs offer health benefits for people with asthma. But certain properties are increased in the figs, once they are dried.

  Protein, fat, minerals, fiber and carbohydrate food values are higher in dried figs than in fresh figs. Additionally, calcium is 360 percent higher in dried figs, phosphorus is 350 percent higher, and iron is 500 percent higher. This makes the dried fig a more potent source of fig nutrition.

  Figs contain vitamin B complex. Fresh figs are a source of vitamin C, and the dried figs of vitamin A. The vitamin C will help to cut through the mucus buildup, keeping the respiratory system hydrated, while vitamin A provides moisture to the mucous membranes.

  A fresh fig has a moisture level of more than 88 percent, whereas a dried fig contains only 23 percent moisture. But a dried fig's moisture can be increased by overnight soaking.

A Treatment for Asthma

• For maximum benefit, wash then soak three dried figs in water overnight in a clean and covered container. The water will gradually soften the figs, causing them to break down in the water. This will help to release some of their vitamins, minerals and other properties into the water. In the morning, drink the fig water and eat the soaked figs on an empty stomach. These figs will be easy to digest, and the nutrients will quickly enter the bloodstream to help support the respiratory system, increase immunity and prevent asthma attacks.