It’s great that you’re enjoying anjeer, whether fresh or dried! The process of making dried anjeer, or figs, involves sun-drying them. Often, they’re left to dry naturally under the sun, which helps preserve them for long term use without losing their natural sweetness. The drying process actually concentrates the nutrients, so dried anjeers are quite potent. But, it’s important to note, they do lose some vitamin C due to heat exposure.
Dried anjeer retains much of its fiber, calcium, iron, and other mineral content, which is why your nutritionist pointed it out for boosting iron levels. But definitely include both forms in your diet; fresh anjeer brings benefit due to its water content, supporting hydration along with nutrient intake, and its effective cooling impact during hot months.
In terms of digestibility, dried figs can sometimes be harder to chew; soaking them in water overnight may help. The traditional Ayurvedic view suggests that soaking improves their digestibility. It softens the fibers, activating their benefits and making it easier for the digestive system. This practice also accentuates their natural cooling nature, which can be slightly altered during the drying process—so soaking brings it closer to its fresh character.
Regarding enhancing healing properties, certain Ayurvedic practices might involve combining dried anjeer with spices like cardamom or ginger for improved assimilation by Agni, the digestive fire. This combination could further help in addressing gut issues and ensuring nutrient absorption.
For digestion, combining it with herbs like fennel or mint can further help as fennel has digestive and carminative properties, reducing any possible bloating from getting too excited with the fiber in figs.
From an Ayurvedic lens, ensuring anjeer’s harmony with your dosha is crucial. If you’ve a pitta constitution, keeping it in moderation, owing to its natural sweetness and density, is beneficial, while for vata, its moistening quality can support balancing the dryness. Again, it’s all about balance, integrate into your meals but in tun with your body’s signals!
So, for best results, incorporate both fresh and dried forms into your meals as per season and body needs, giving special attention to how each form feels to your system. Enjoy it mindfully!



