Bengal Fig

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Bengal fig (Ficus benghalensis, also called Indian banyan or vat) is a large fig tree native to the Indian subcontinent. Its bark, aerial roots, leaves, and latex are used in Ayurveda for diabetes, diarrhea, skin conditions, and inflammation.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Blood glucose (type 2 diabetes)

Mixed Evidence

Preliminary human trials suggest blood-glucose-lowering effects in type 2 diabetes. Evidence is limited and should not replace standard care.

Diarrhea (astringent traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional use as an astringent for diarrhea. Limited modern evidence.

How it works

Bengal fig contains tannins, flavonoids, sterols, and triterpenes. Animal studies suggest hypoglycemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities. The aerial root and bark extracts have been studied in small human trials for blood glucose effects in type 2 diabetes, with preliminary positive results.

Dosage

Traditional doses use 3 to 6 grams of dried bark powder daily. Modern standardized extracts vary by product.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken twice daily before or with meals.

1 commercial form

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Ficus benghalensis bark powder

Used in Ayurvedic decoctions and capsules.

Traditional preparation.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at traditional doses. Latex can cause skin irritation. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of safety data. Diabetics should monitor blood glucose if adding to a regimen. Caution in people with iron-deficiency anemia.

Interactions

May lower blood glucose; combine with caution with antidiabetic medications and monitor blood sugar. Tannin content may reduce absorption of iron and certain drugs.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bengal fig the same as the food fig?⌄

No. They are related (both Ficus) but different species. The common food fig is Ficus carica.

Can it really help diabetes?⌄

Some preliminary research is encouraging but not strong enough to recommend it as a treatment.

References

Bengal Fig on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Bengal Fig (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.