Calimyrna figs are a specific variety of figs that can deliver a boost of nutrients and provide delicious variety in your daily diet.
What are Calimyrna Figs?
The name “Calimyrna” comes from a combination of California and Smyrna, the latter of which is the type of fig cutting that was taken from Turkey to California, where it subsequently flourished. California has a very similar climate to Turkey and provides the type of Mediterranean environment where these figs can thrive. Unlike common figs that you may find in most stores and markets, which have a dark purple exterior, calimyrna figs have a pale yellow to light green skin. They are quite delicate and have a nutty aroma, and when they are allowed to dry, they become golden-brown in color. You can primarily find calimyrna figs in their dried form, although they are often eaten fresh in California. [1]
Available both dried and fresh, calimyrna figs have light-green to yellow skin. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Calimyrna Figs Nutrition
These unique figs have a very good nutritional profile, as they are rich in fiber, potassium, iron, and calcium. They also have 20 grams of sugar in a single serving. While that is a high level of sugar, most of it comes in the form of fructose, which isn’t considered as dangerous for diabetics. There are also significant levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, and beta-carotene in these small fruits, which can have notable effects on your health. Each of the figs is of 35 calories and the total calories of an average serving of the fruit may range between 100 and 110. [2]
Calimyrna Figs Benefits
There are quite a few impressive health benefits of calimyrna figs, including its ability to boost the immune system, strengthen memory, and protect cardiovascular health, among others.
Skin Care
There are quite a few vitamins and antioxidants in calimyrna figs, which can help to improve skin appearance by minimizing wrinkles, age spots, and blemishes. It can also promote healing, thanks to the considerable amount of vitamin C and its ability to increase healing and skin elasticity.
Blood Pressure & Cholesterol
With more than 20% of your fiber requirement per day, these small fruits are well known to lower overall cholesterol levels, while the significant level of potassium means that it can help to decrease blood pressure. All of these effects mean a stronger cardiovascular system and a lower risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. [3]
Immune System
These figs have a good level of vitamin C, which can stimulate the production of white blood cells, the first line of defense in the body. Furthermore, the beta-carotene and other antioxidants can further help to relieve strain on the immune system. [4]
Memory
Some research has shown that the active ingredients and volatile compounds in these fruits can boost memory by preventing beta-amyloid plaque deposition and increasing blood flow to the brain. [5]
Sleep Patterns
The traditional use of these fruits includes their application as a sleep aid. While the exact chemical mechanism of this benefit isn’t understood, it remains a popular late-night snack in certain parts of the world. [6]
Hemorrhoids
There are anti-inflammatory compounds found in calimyrna figs that can help eliminate irritation and discomfort throughout the body; if you suffer from hemorrhoids, regular consumption of these figs, thanks to their high fiber content, can regulate digestion and prevent constipation, along with various other gastrointestinal issues. [7]
