==Special Precautions of Figs==
* Fresh or dried fig fruit is safe for most people when used in food amounts. Fig LEAF appears to be safe for most people when used for up to one month as a medicine. In high doses, fig LATEX, the sap from the tree, might cause bleeding in the digestive tract in some people.
*Avoid prolonged sun exposure when taking fig LEAF because it can cause skin to become extra sensitive to the sun. Wear sunblock outside, especially if you are light-skinned. Fig FRUIT is unlikely to cause sun sensitivity. Organic chemical compounds called furanocoumarins are known to cause phytophotodermatitis in humans. The common fig contains significant quantities of two furanocoumarins, psoralen and bergapten. The essential oil of fig leaves contains more than 10% psoralen, the highest concentration of any organic compound isolated from fig leaves. Psoralen appears to be the primary furanocoumarin compound responsible for fig leaf-induced phytophotodermatitis.
*Skin contact with fig fruit or leaves can cause rash in sensitive people.
*Surgery: Fig might lower blood sugar levels. There is some concern that it might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using fig as medicine at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
==Health Benefits and uses of Figs are==
*One of the most alkali-forming foods are figs and fig juice. ([[Acid/alkaline balance]])