ANJEER: NATURE'S GIFT OF BALANCED NUTRITION FOR HOLISTIC WELL BEING- A REVIEW

Ficus carica linn, commonly known as fig belongs to family moraceae. It is an extensively used traditional medicinal plant with variety of therapeutic applications. It is most commonly found in Mediterranean region. It is typically of 15 to 20 feet tall deciduous tree. It is consumed both in dry and fresh form. It is not only used as a diet but also as a drug. Not only fruit but latex, bark and leaves also contains therapeutic benefits. Method: The objective of this review paper was to emphasize the habitat, chemical composition, phytochemistry, and evidence-based research on Anjeer with a focus on traditional usage. The literature search included articles, scientific databases, and old unani literature books for traditional use, pharmaceutical applications, evidence-based research, and other topics. Results: Ficus carica linn has a wide range of pharmacological activities supported by traditional uses and scientific research such as hepatoprotective activity, hypoglycaemic activity, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, erythropoietic activity, anti-aging, anti-acne activity. It is full of phenolic compounds, organic acids, volatile compounds, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates. In traditional system of medicine it is considered as kaseerulghiza and is effective in constipation, skin diseases, spleen and liver disorders, wound healing, kidney bladder diseases, uterine diseases, improves intelligence as it possesses properties of Mughazzi, Mulayyin, Muqawwi-i-Jigar, Muhallil-i-Waram, Muqawwi-i-Badan, Moarrique, Mudirr-i-Bawl, Muqawwi-i-Bah, Jali and mizaaj of garm o tar. Conclusion: Ficus carica linn is an excellent nutritive source which can be used in different forms for various ailments due to its phytochemical constituents. However further research is needed to confirm its capability, mechanism of action for future clinical uses.