Cluster Fig

Botanical

What is it

Cluster fig (Ficus racemosa, also called udumbara or oudumber in Ayurveda) is a tropical tree native to South Asia. Bark, fruit, leaves, and latex have been used in Ayurveda for diabetes, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and wound healing.

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

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

Digestive complaints (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional use for diarrhea and hemorrhoids. Modern clinical evidence is limited.

How it works

Ficus racemosa contains tannins, flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), sterols, and triterpenes. Animal and small human studies suggest hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and astringent effects. The blood-glucose-lowering activity has been documented in a few preliminary clinical studies in people with type 2 diabetes.

Dosage

Traditional Ayurvedic doses use 3 to 6 grams of dried bark per day. Modern extract products vary.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken twice daily before meals.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Ficus racemosa 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 cluster fig to a treatment regimen.

Interactions

May lower blood glucose; combine with caution with antidiabetic medications and monitor blood sugar. Theoretical interaction with anticoagulants from tannin content (mild).

Food sources

Cluster fig fruit (cooked)

Amount
100 g
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Are cluster figs the same as common figs?⌄

They are related (both Ficus species) but different. Cluster fig (F. racemosa) is mainly used medicinally; common fig (F. carica) is the familiar food fig.

Can it really help diabetes?⌄

Some preliminary research is encouraging but not strong enough to recommend it as a treatment. Standard care should be continued.

References

Cluster Fig on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Cluster Fig (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Cluster Fig with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
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.