Evidence supporting the use of: Bengal Fig
For the health condition: Goiter
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
The use of Bengal Fig (Ficus benghalensis) in the treatment of goiter is primarily rooted in traditional medicine rather than scientific validation. In Ayurvedic and some folk medicinal systems in India, different parts of the Bengal Fig—such as the latex, bark, or leaves—have historically been employed for the management of various ailments, including swellings and glandular enlargements like goiter. The rationale behind its use may relate to its purported anti-inflammatory or detoxifying properties as per traditional beliefs.
However, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Bengal Fig specifically for goiter is extremely limited. There are no well-designed clinical trials, pharmacological studies, or robust preclinical research that establish a clear mechanism by which Bengal Fig could influence thyroid enlargement or thyroid hormone regulation. Some in vitro or animal studies have explored the general anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties of Ficus benghalensis, but these are not directly linked to thyroid health or goiter reduction. Thus, its continued use for goiter in certain traditional practices persists more on the basis of historical precedent rather than evidence-based medicine.
In summary, while Bengal Fig has a place in traditional remedies for goiter, its use is not substantiated by modern scientific investigation, and any therapeutic claims should be approached with caution.
Other health conditions supported by Bengal Fig
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Backache
Bladder Infection
Blood Poisoning
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Chills
Cholera
Cholesterol (high)
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Cuts
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Ear Infection or Earache
Edema
Emotional Sensitivity
Emphysema
Eye Infections
Fatigue
Fever
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Goiter
Gout
Headache (general)
Headache (tension)
Heart (weakness)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Hypertension
Indigestion
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Influenza
Insomnia
Jaundice (adults)
Kidney Infection
Kidney Stones