author(s)
Dr. ZN Nuri and Dr. Md. Shahab Uddin

abstract
Ficus carica is the most popular member of the genus Ficus, and the family Moraceae. In the Mediterranean region it is so widely used, both fresh and dried, that it is called “the poor man’s food.” The dried fruits of F. carica have been reported as an important source of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, sugars, organic acids, and phenolic compounds. The plant has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments related to digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and respiratory systems, and also cancer. Additionally, it is also used in gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract infection. Phytochemical studies on the leaves and fruits of the plant have shown that they are rich in phenolics, organic acids, and volatile compounds. However, there is little information on the phytochemicals present in the stem and root. Reports on the biological activities of the plant are mainly on its crude extracts which have been proven to possess many biological activities. Some of the most interesting therapeutic effects include anticancer, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antimicrobial activities. Thus, studies related to identification of the bioactive compounds and correlating them to their biological activities are very useful for further research to explore the potential of F. carica as a source of therapeutic agents.