Herb & supplement monograph

Fig Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Fig interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Fig is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Fig is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Fig Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Fig drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and while all are graded moderate, only a few rest on actual human evidence.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-documented concern involves diabetes medications and insulin. A small human study found that tea made from fig leaves modestly lowered after-meal blood sugar and reduced insulin needs, so adding fig products could strengthen the blood-sugar-lowering effect of these closely monitored medicines. There is also a possible added risk of sun sensitivity when fig is combined with photosensitizing drugs, such as certain antibiotics and amitriptyline, since skin reactions to fig leaf after sun exposure have been reported.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of medications largely reflects that one sun-sensitivity concern spread across many drugs that share the same side effect. That concern is theoretical, based on skin reactions to fig leaf itself rather than proof that the combinations cause harm. In short, a big number here does not mean every pairing is risky.

Check your medications against Fig

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Fig interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Fig

410 medications have a known interaction with Fig, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fig leaf might enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcepromazineAtravet
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acepromazine interaction
Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PseudoephedrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS Liquid Gels, Children's Tylenol Cold, Codimal, Comtrex, Extra Strength Tylenol Allergy Sinus, Lorsin +3 more
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, PseudoephedrineSinadrin Plus
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, DiphenhydramineTylenol PM, Tylenol PM Ex Strength
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine interaction
Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Allergy, Cold Control, Contac Night Allergy Relief
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interaction
Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, ChlorpheniramineSuper Cold Tabs
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine interaction
AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetazolamide interaction Acetazolamide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcetohexamideDymelor
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fig leaf might enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acetohexamide interaction
AcitretinSoriatane
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Acitretin interaction Acitretin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlbiglutideTanzeum
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fig leaf might enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs.

Read the full Fig + Albiglutide interaction
Alectinib HydrochlorideAlecensa
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Alectinib Hydrochloride interaction Alectinib Hydrochloride drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlitretinoinPanretin
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.

Read the full Fig + Alitretinoin interaction Alitretinoin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlogliptinNesina
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fig leaf might enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs.

Read the full Fig + Alogliptin interaction Alogliptin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Alogliptin, MetforminKazano
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fig leaf might enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs.

Read the full Fig + Alogliptin, Metformin interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Fig combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Fig affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Fig is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 3 drug categories Fig interacts with
Antidiabetes DrugsInsulinPhotosensitizing Drugs
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fig leaf might enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs.
A small clinical study in patients with type 1 diabetes shows that consuming a tea made from fig leaves modestly reduces postprandial glucose levels and insulin requirements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Insulin

Fig leaf may enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of insulin.
A small clinical study in patients with type 1 diabetes shows that consuming a tea made from fig leaves modestly reduces postprandial glucose levels and insulin requirements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, fig might increase the risk of photosensitivity when used in combination with photosensitizing drugs.
Many cases of photodermatitis from fig leaf have been reported. Some drugs that also cause photosensitivity include amitriptyline (Elavil), quinolones (Ciprofloxacin, others), sulfa drugs (Septra, Bactrim, others), and tetracycline.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Fig: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Fig (Ficus carica) is a common fruit that has long been used as a gentle food remedy for constipation, and its leaves are used traditionally for blood sugar and coughs. The fruit is a safe and nutritious food, but evidence for fig leaf supplements treating specific health conditions is limited. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using concentrated fig leaf products, especially if you have diabetes.

Scientific name
Ficus carica
Family
Moraceae
Part used
Fruit, leaves, and latex (sap)
Common forms
Fresh or dried fruit, leaf tea, leaf extract, syrup, capsules
People commonly use it for
  • Constipation and digestive health
  • Blood sugar support
  • Cough and sore throat
  • Skin conditions (topical sap)
  • Source of fiber and minerals

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Fig fruit is a safe food for most people; concentrated leaf products are less studied.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When the fresh or dried fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When the fresh or dried fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Fig comes from Ficus carica, a small tree or large shrub in the mulberry family. It is native to the Mediterranean and Middle East and is now grown in many warm regions around the world.

People mainly eat figs as a fresh or dried fruit. The fruit is naturally sweet and is a good source of fiber, potassium, and other nutrients. Beyond food, the leaves, latex (a milky sap), and fruit have a long history in traditional medicine. Fig leaf tea and extracts are used in some cultures for digestion, blood sugar, and coughs, while the sap has been applied to the skin.

How it works

The fruit's effect on digestion comes mostly from its fiber and natural sugars, which add bulk and draw water into the gut to help move stool along.

Fig leaves and fruit contain plant compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. Laboratory and animal studies suggest these compounds may affect blood sugar, fight oxidation, and reduce inflammation. The milky latex contains enzymes and other substances that have been studied in test tubes for effects on skin growths.

It is important to know that many of these mechanisms come from laboratory or animal research, and what happens in a dish or a mouse does not always carry over to people.

Effectiveness

Does Fig work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 7 uses evaluated
7 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Fig, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 7 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral fig leaf tea or topical fig fruit extract is beneficial in adults or children with eczema.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Constipation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral fig fruit is beneficial for constipation.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral fig leaf is beneficial for glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Melasma
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical fig has only been used in combination with other ingredients. Its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Vitiligo
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral fig for vitiligo, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fig for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Warts
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical fig latex is beneficial for warts in adults and children.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Wound healing
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical fig for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of fig for this purpose.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Figs eaten as a food are safe for most people. People who are allergic to figs or to latex may react to the fruit, leaves, or sap, and some people are sensitive to other fruits in the same plant family.

The fresh fig sap (latex) can be irritating and may cause a rash or, in sunlight, a more serious skin reaction (a sun-triggered burn). Be careful when handling the sap and avoid sun exposure on skin that contacted it.

If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider before using fig leaf supplements, since they may affect blood sugar. For pregnancy and breastfeeding, eating figs as a food is generally fine, but there is not enough safety information on concentrated leaf extracts or supplements, so it is best to avoid those products. Always check with a pharmacist or doctor before starting any supplement.

Side effects

Eaten in normal food amounts, figs rarely cause problems. Eating large amounts of dried figs may cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea because of the fiber and natural sugars.

Possible reactions include allergic responses (itching, hives, or swelling), especially in people sensitive to fig or latex. Contact with the fresh sap can cause skin irritation and a sun-related skin reaction. Concentrated leaf supplements have not been widely studied for side effects.

Fig: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Fig from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, the fresh or dried fig fruit is well tolerated in amounts commonly found in foods. A thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted when fig fruit is used orally as medicine.

Topically, fig leaf may cause photodermatitis. There is limited reliable information available about the safety of fig fruit or latex when applied topically.

Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):

Orally: Allergy and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis.

Topically: The fig leaf may cause photodermatitis.

Reports by condition
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) Immunologic

Orally, fig fruit can cause allergy and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Topically, exposure to fig fruit and leaves can cause contact dermatitis. In some cases, sun exposure can make contact dermatitis worse.

  1. Gandolfo M, Baeza M, De Barrio M, Anaphylaxis after eating figs. Allergy 2001;56:462-3.
  2. Dechamp C, Bessot JC, Pauli G, Deviller P. First report of anaphylactic reaction after fig (Ficus carica) ingestion. Allergy 1995;50:514-6.
  3. Lembo G, Lo Presti M, Balato N. Phytophotodermatitis due to ficus carica. Photodermatol 1985;2:119-20.
  4. Bonamonte D, Foti C, Lionetti N, Rigano L, Angelini G. Photoallergic contact dermatitis to 8-methoxypsoralen in Ficus carica. Contact Dermatitis. 2010;62(6):343-8.
Anemia Dermatologic

Topically, fig leaf might cause photodermatitis. The leaf contains psoralens. Many cases of photodermatitis from fig leaf have been reported. In at least two cases, the burns were serious enough to require hospitalization. Severe anemia and sepsis developed in one patient,. Avoid excessive sunlight or ultraviolet light exposure while using products containing fig leaf.

Orally, fig fruit is unlikely to cause photodermatitis.

  1. Rubnov S, Kashman Y, Rabinowitz R, et al. Suppressors of cancer cell proliferation from fig (Ficus carica) resin: isolation and structure elucidation. J Nat Prod 2001;64:993-6.
  2. Zaynoun ST, Aftimos BG, Abi Ali L, et al. Ficus carica; isolation and quantification of the photoactive components. Contact Dermatitis 1984;11:21-5.
  3. Bollero, D., Stella, M., Rivolin, A., Cassano, P., Risso, D., and Vanzetti, M. Fig leaf tanning lotion and sun-related burns: case reports. Burns 2001;27(7):777-779.
  4. Ozdamar, E., Ozbek, S., and Akin, S. An unusual cause of burn injury: fig leaf decoction used as a remedy for a dermatitis of unknown etiology. J.Burn Care Rehabil. 2003;24(4):229-233.
  5. Munteanu, M. Contact dermatitis to the sap of fig-tree. Rev.Med.Chir Soc.Med.Nat.Iasi 1989;93(3):602.
  6. Lembo, G., Lo, Presti M., and Balato, N. Phytophotodermatitis due to ficus carica. Photodermatol. 1985;2(2):119-120.
  7. Micali, G., Nasca, M. R., and Musumeci, M. L. Severe phototoxic reaction secondary to the application of a fig leaves' decoction used as a tanning agent. Contact Dermatitis 1995;33(3):212-213.
  8. Pinto AR, Machado Cunha I, Rebelo Gomes E. Fig Tree-Induced Phytophotodermatitis: A Case Report on the Perils of a Hobby. Cureus 2023;15(7):e41888.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no official standardized dose for fig as a medicine. As a food, people commonly eat a few dried or fresh figs for fiber and to help with constipation.

For fig leaf teas, extracts, or capsules, no well-established medicinal dose exists. If you choose to use a product, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed the recommended amount. Because product strengths vary widely, check with your pharmacist or doctor first—especially if you have diabetes or take other medicines.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Fig & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When the fresh or dried fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of fig leaf or fruit used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and lactation; avoid use.

Fig & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When the fresh or dried fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of fig leaf or fruit used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and lactation; avoid use.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 13 references that drive our Fig monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Gandolfo M, Baeza M, De Barrio M, Anaphylaxis after eating figs. Allergy 2001;56:462-3. PubMed
  2. Serraclara A, Hawkins F, Perez C, et al. Hypoglycemic action of an oral fig-leaf decoction in type-I diabetic patients. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 1998;39:19-22. PubMed
  3. Rubnov S, Kashman Y, Rabinowitz R, et al. Suppressors of cancer cell proliferation from fig (Ficus carica) resin: isolation and structure elucidation. J Nat Prod 2001;64:993-6.
  4. Dechamp C, Bessot JC, Pauli G, Deviller P. First report of anaphylactic reaction after fig (Ficus carica) ingestion. Allergy 1995;50:514-6.
  5. Zaynoun ST, Aftimos BG, Abi Ali L, et al. Ficus carica; isolation and quantification of the photoactive components. Contact Dermatitis 1984;11:21-5.
  6. Lembo G, Lo Presti M, Balato N. Phytophotodermatitis due to ficus carica. Photodermatol 1985;2:119-20.
  7. Bollero, D., Stella, M., Rivolin, A., Cassano, P., Risso, D., and Vanzetti, M. Fig leaf tanning lotion and sun-related burns: case reports. Burns 2001;27(7):777-779. PubMed
  8. Ozdamar, E., Ozbek, S., and Akin, S. An unusual cause of burn injury: fig leaf decoction used as a remedy for a dermatitis of unknown etiology. J.Burn Care Rehabil. 2003;24(4):229-233. PubMed
  9. Munteanu, M. Contact dermatitis to the sap of fig-tree. Rev.Med.Chir Soc.Med.Nat.Iasi 1989;93(3):602.
  10. Lembo, G., Lo, Presti M., and Balato, N. Phytophotodermatitis due to ficus carica. Photodermatol. 1985;2(2):119-120.
  11. Micali, G., Nasca, M. R., and Musumeci, M. L. Severe phototoxic reaction secondary to the application of a fig leaves' decoction used as a tanning agent. Contact Dermatitis 1995;33(3):212-213. PubMed
  12. Bonamonte D, Foti C, Lionetti N, Rigano L, Angelini G. Photoallergic contact dermatitis to 8-methoxypsoralen in Ficus carica. Contact Dermatitis. 2010;62(6):343-8.
  13. Pinto AR, Machado Cunha I, Rebelo Gomes E. Fig Tree-Induced Phytophotodermatitis: A Case Report on the Perils of a Hobby. Cureus 2023;15(7):e41888. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Fig

58 brands in our database make a supplement containing Fig.

Product directory

Supplement products with Fig

241 products in our database contain Fig. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Fig: Common Questions

What is Fig used for, and does it work?
People use Fig for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Fig interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 410 medications with a known interaction with Fig. Use the checker above to see how Fig interacts with a specific drug.
How are Fig interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Fig with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Fig interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Fig commonly used for?
Figs are most commonly eaten as a fiber-rich food to help with constipation. Traditionally, Fig leaves have also been used for blood sugar support and to soothe coughs, though the evidence for these uses is limited.
Are Figs good for constipation?
Yes, Figs—especially dried Figs—are a good natural source of fiber and can help keep your bowels regular. They work much like other high-fiber fruits.
Is it safe to eat Figs during pregnancy?
Eating Figs as a normal food is generally considered fine during pregnancy. However, concentrated Fig leaf extracts or supplements have not been studied for safety, so it is best to avoid those unless your doctor approves.
Can Fig leaf help with diabetes?
Some early studies suggest Fig leaf may lower blood sugar, but the evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a treatment. If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider before using Fig leaf products.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Fig

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Fig — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 241 products with Fig →
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