07/01/2024
What is Ficus Nota?
Tibig (Tagalog), Tabuyog (Hiligaynon), Ficus Nota (scientific name)
a species of fig tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. This versatile plant goes by various names such as Indian Laurel, Dye Fig, and Tibig in the Philippines.It is locally known as Tabuyog in Negros Occidental. Tibig can usually be found in wet places especially along the rivers.
Is Tibig Edible?
Yes, the fruit of Tibig is edible. It is a small, round fruit that is about the size of a cherry. The flesh of the fruit is white and has a sweet taste. The fruit is usually eaten fresh, but it can also be cooked or made into jam.
The fruit of Tibig is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. It is also a good source of antioxidants.
Tibig Tree is also edible. The young leaves and shoots are cooked and eaten as a vegetable. The ripe fruits are also edible and have a sweet taste.
Here are some tips for eating the fruit of Ficus nota:
■Choose fruit that is ripe and has a bright red color.
■Wash the fruit thoroughly before eating it.
■You can eat the fruit fresh, cook it, or make it into jam.
■If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to avoid eating the fruit.
Health and Medicinal Benefits of Ficus Nota
The plant has a long history of traditional use in the Philippines for a variety of medicinal purposes, including:
1. Diabetes: Ficus nota has been shown to have anti-diabetic properties. A study published in the journal “Phytomedicine” found that the ethanolic extract of the leaves of F. nota was able to significantly reduce blood sugar levels in rats with diabetes.
2. Stomachache: The leaves of F. nota are traditionally used to treat stomachache. A study published in the journal “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” found that the aqueous extract of the leaves had anti-ulcer activity in rats.
3. Piles: The leaves of F. nota are also used to treat piles. A study published in the journal “Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine” found that the topical application of the leaf extract was effective in reducing the symptoms of piles in patients.
4. Ulcer: The leaves of F. nota have also been shown to have anti-ulcer properties. A study published in the journal “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” found that the aqueous extract of the leaves was able to protect the stomach lining from damage caused by ulcer-inducing agents.
5. Dysentery: The leaves of F. nota are also used to treat dysentery. A study published in the journal “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” found that the aqueous extract of the leaves was effective in killing the bacteria that cause dysentery.
6. Inflammation: Ficus nota has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the journal “Phytochemistry” found that the ethanolic extract of the leaves had anti-inflammatory activity in mice.
7. Oxidative stress: Tibig is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. A study published in the journal “Food and Chemical Toxicology” found that the ethanolic extract of the leaves had strong antioxidant activity.
8. Cancer: Ficus nota has also been shown to have anti-cancer properties. A study published in the journal “Cancer Letters” found that the ethanolic extract of the leaves was able to kill cancer cells in vitro.
When used responsibly and under proper guidance, Ficus Nota can be an excellent addition to your holistic wellness routine. Explore its medical properties.
