What are the wart-like bumps on fig leaves?
The fig tree is considered one of the oldest species cultivated by humans, with nearly 29 different varieties. Figs provide a considerable amount of calories (74 kcal/100g) and are rich in minerals, particularly calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, as well as trace elements such as iron, fiber, and vitamins B, C, A, retinol, E, and K.
For as long as anyone can remember, figs have become an essential ingredient in the cuisine of Hanoi. Fig shoots, fig leaves, and figs themselves are transformed into irresistibly delicious dishes.
When it comes to figs, countless delicious dishes can be mentioned. From fresh pickled figs to sour pickled figs… The most memorable dish is perhaps the fig leaves served with Phung spring rolls… The sweet, fatty, and crunchy texture of the spring rolls combined with the fragrant aroma of rice flour and the astringent taste of fig leaves, paired with a tangy and spicy dipping sauce, is simply delightful. However, many people often wonder why fig leaves sometimes have strange wart-like bumps, resembling pimples?
These leaves are referred to as deformed fig leaves (fig suckers or leaf warts…). But do you know what these bumps actually are?
Fig leaves with wart-like bumps are known as deformed fig leaves.
The truth about the bumps on fig leaves
In fact, this is a question many ornamental plant growers around the world have raised. Some believe that these are signs that the fig tree is diseased. Others simply think that it is just the “structure” of the plant and cannot be changed.
However, the truth is that not only fig leaves but many other types of leaves can also show similar wart-like bumps. These are not diseases but rather indications that insects and some parasitic species have attacked the leaves. The presence of these bumps is similar to the hives reaction on human skin when experiencing an allergy.
Many people may worry that these bumps are insect eggs. But rest assured! By the time you see these bumps, the pest that attacked the leaf has long since left, and the bumps themselves rarely contain insect eggs.
Furthermore, only fresh leaves that have just emerged from new shoots are prone to this reaction. If older leaves are attacked, it is very rare for bumps to appear.
However, in cases where the bumps are a distinctly different color from the leaves (for example: orange-red) and can be easily removed, you should be cautious. Those are indeed insect eggs.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fig leaves with bumps are considered better than normal leaves.
Is it safe to eat leaves with bumps?
As of now, there are no scientific studies addressing this issue. However, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, fig leaves with bumps are regarded as superior to normal leaves and are believed to cure various uncomfortable ailments such as liver disease, headaches, and serve as a tonic for sick individuals…
Benefits of fig leaves
Because fig leaves contain a large amount of fiber, they can effectively help those who are obese or want to lose weight manage their weight. The high fiber content also promotes a healthier digestive system, preventing constipation. Incorporating fig leaves into your diet by eating them raw can help reduce constipation and facilitate easier digestion, leading to better stomach function.
The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that people can use traditional plants to support diabetes treatment, including fig leaves due to their glucose-lowering effects. A small study from 1998 showed that in eight participants, their blood sugar levels after meals decreased, and their required insulin dosage was also lower when they consumed extracts from fig leaves.
Many in vitro studies have demonstrated that fig leaves and natural latex from the fig tree have anti-tumor activity, combating human colorectal, breast, cervical, and liver cancer cells. Additionally, fig leaves can improve blood pressure and lipid levels, thereby enhancing vascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Fig leaves are often consumed raw as a side vegetable.
Cooked fig leaves do not have a special flavor; they can even be hard to eat and are mostly fibrous. Therefore, in cuisine, fig leaves are usually consumed raw as a side vegetable to enhance flavor, especially in dishes like: rice paper rolls, fermented rolls, and sour rolls. Thanks to their rich, sweet, and slightly astringent taste, when paired with other leaves such as guava leaves, cilantro leaves, and a tangy, spicy, sweet dipping sauce, this indeed makes for a snack that is both delicious and healthy.
Who should avoid fig leaves?
Although they offer many wonderful benefits, eating fig leaves should be avoided by certain individuals such as:
Those experiencing rectal or vaginal bleeding should refrain from consumption until bleeding stops.
Fig leaves can lower blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for diabetic patients. However, individuals with low blood sugar should avoid using them.
People with kidney disease should limit their intake of fig leaf tea or leaves, as it may worsen their condition.
