*2.2.1 Utilization of* F. carica *fruits and its products as complementary therapies*

### *2.2.1.1 Cardioprotective (hypotensive effect)*

*F. carica* is one of the five plants mentioned in the Quran widely used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Nevertheless, its hypertensive properties are not well documented. However, a study reveals that fruit extract of *F. carica*

**Figure 2.**

*Chemical structure of principal bioactive components found in fig (*Ficus carica*) fruits.*

significantly reduced the level of blood pressure in normal as well as glucose-treated (hypertensive) rats. This effect has been attributed due to the presence of flavonoids, phenols and potassium ions which alter the level of glucose/fructose stimulating cardioinhibitory, antihypertensive and diuretic effects [46].
