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Ficin

Ficin is a latex substance from the trunk of a tree called Ficus Insipida. Ficin is used as a medicine as well as in medical procedures and in the field of industrial production.

Ficin is used for digestive problems and to combat worms in the digestive tract.

In medical procedures, ficin is used in the production of sutures for surgical stitches, in the preparation of animal arteries for implantation in humans and in blood grouping.

In industrial production, ficin is used in the manufacture of cheese and sausage casings and in the production of frost-proof beer. Ficin is sometimes added to meat tenderizers, usually in combination with papain and/or bromelain.

How does ficin work?

Ficin contains chemicals that may help break down proteins and kill intestinal worms.

How effective is Ficin?

There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of Ficin on intestinal worms or other intestinal problems. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of Ficin in these applications.

Safety and side effects

There is not enough information on whether oral administration of Ficin is safe and harmless. However, large amounts can cause severe diarrhea.

Applying Ficin to the skin is not safe and harmless as Ficin can cause bleeding and allergic reactions.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the safety of taking Ficin orally during pregnancy and lactation, but it is known that it is not safe to use on the skin. For safety reasons, pregnant and breastfeeding women should therefore refrain from using Ficin in any way.

Interactions

At this time, there is no information on interactions of Ficin with medications or supplements.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of Ficin depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At the present time, there is insufficient scientific data to make a statement about appropriate dosage ranges for Ficin. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

References

  1. Hansson A, Veliz G, Naquira C, et al. Preclinical and clinical studies with latex from Ficus glabrata HBK, a traditional intestinal anthelmintic in the Amazonian area. J Ethnopharmacol 1986;17:105-38.