Fig Leaf for Eczema

A 2022 study found that 500ml of fig leaf tea daily significantly improved eczema compared to placebo over 8 weeks. Fig leaf has been shown to inhibit the binding of IgE antibodies (immune molecules) to a specific receptor linked with asthma and possibly eczema. If the fig leaf variety contains furanocoumarin, it could interact with some medications. Fig leaf may increase sensitivity to sunlight or cause other side effects.

Abe T, Koyama Y, Nishimura K, Okiura A, Takahashi T. Efficacy and Safety of Fig (Ficus carica L.) Leaf Tea in Adults with Mild Atopic Dermatitis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Preliminary Trial. Nutrients. 2022 Oct 25;14(21):4470. doi: 10.3390/nu14214470. PMID: 36364740; PMCID: PMC9658579.