What is the white liquid that comes out of figs?

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

The common fig, or Ficus carica, is one of the oldest cultivated fruit trees known to humankind, with evidence of cultivation dating back over 11,000 years. However, when a fig is picked or a leaf is broken, many people are surprised to see a milky white substance ooze from the stem, a fluid that has both fascinating botanical functions and important implications for humans. This white liquid is a natural latex, a complex chemical compound produced by the tree for protection and healing.

Quick Summary

The white liquid from figs is a sticky latex, a defense mechanism containing enzymes and proteins. It can cause skin irritation for some people due to its compounds and may contain proteolytic enzymes, like ficin. This sap should be handled with care, especially if sensitive to natural rubber latex.

Key Points

Fig latex is a defense mechanism: The white liquid is a sticky latex produced to protect the plant from pests and to heal damage.
Contains potent enzymes: It is rich in proteolytic enzymes, such as ficin, which can break down proteins and are responsible for some of its medicinal uses.
Can cause skin irritation: The sap contains furanocoumarins that can lead to phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction made worse by sunlight.
Toxic if ingested: Consuming large quantities of fig latex is not recommended as it can be toxic and may cause digestive problems.
Used in traditional medicine: Historically, the sap has been applied topically to treat skin conditions like warts, leveraging its enzymatic properties.
Differs from other plant saps: Unlike maple sap, fig latex is not safe for consumption and is primarily a defensive compound rather than a nutrient transport system.

Understanding the purpose of fig latex

The milky sap that flows from a fig tree's stem or an unripe fruit is a form of natural latex, similar to the substance produced by rubber trees. It is found within the plant's laticifers, specialized secretory cells that form a complex network throughout the tree. The fig tree, like other species in the genus Ficus, uses this latex for several crucial biological functions:

Herbivore defense: The latex is a potent deterrent against insects and animals that attempt to feed on the plant. Its sticky, clotting nature can incapacitate small pests, while its bitter and toxic compounds repel larger herbivores.
Wound healing: When the tree is damaged, the latex quickly coagulates to form a seal, much like blood clots in animals. This rapid sealing prevents excessive fluid loss and protects the wound from infection by pathogens.
Antimicrobial properties: Studies have confirmed that fig latex possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, helping to protect the tree from microbial attacks. This explains its traditional use in folk medicine for treating various infections.

The complex composition of fig sap

Fig latex is a rich, complex mixture of various biochemical compounds. Scientific analysis has revealed a diverse array of active ingredients that contribute to its biological effects. These include:

Proteolytic enzymes: The sap is a rich source of cysteine proteases, primarily ficin. These enzymes break down proteins and are responsible for many of the traditional medicinal uses of fig latex, such as treating warts.
Triterpenoids: These organic compounds are a major constituent of the latex, with some studies showing they can make up over 90% of its content. They have been studied for their potential antioxidant and cytotoxic activities.
Furanocoumarins: The latex contains phototoxic compounds like psoralen and bergapten, which can cause severe skin inflammation (phytophotodermatitis) upon contact, especially with sun exposure.
Antioxidants and Phenolics: Fig latex is rich in antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. These have been linked to various health-related properties, such as anti-inflammatory effects.

Why you should handle fig latex with care

While the fruit of a ripe fig is safe and delicious, the latex from unripe fruit and other parts of the plant, such as the leaves, can cause a range of reactions in humans. The proteolytic enzymes and furanocoumarins present in the sap are the main culprits behind these adverse effects. The severity of the reaction can vary greatly depending on an individual's sensitivity and the extent of their exposure. For some, it may result in a mild rash, while for others, it can lead to more severe blistering and skin damage.

Fig Latex vs. Other Common Plant Saps


Feature	Fig Latex	Maple Sap	Aloe Vera Gel
Primary Function	Defense against herbivores, wound sealing.	Transporting nutrients throughout the tree.	Storing water, healing properties.
Composition	Complex mix of ficin enzymes, triterpenoids, furanocoumarins.	Water, sugar (mostly sucrose), and trace minerals.	Water, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, phenolic compounds.
Skin Irritant	Yes, especially with sun exposure due to furanocoumarins.	No, generally not an irritant.	Rarely, though some sensitivities can exist.
Oral Consumption	Toxic in high doses; can cause bleeding in the digestive tract.	Safe when processed into syrup or consumed directly.	Generally safe for internal use in specific preparations.
Medical Use	Traditional treatment for warts, skin ulcers (topical).	No traditional medical use beyond nutritional value.	Widely used for skin healing, burns, and digestive health.

Conclusion: The hidden complexity of a simple fruit

The white liquid that appears when a fig is picked is far from a simple fluid. This botanical latex is an evolutionary marvel, packed with chemical defenses designed to protect the tree. While its presence is a natural part of the fig tree's biology, it's a potent reminder to exercise caution when handling any part of the plant other than the ripe fruit. For centuries, traditional medicine has leveraged its healing properties for topical use, but its toxic nature when ingested and its potential to cause skin irritation mean it should always be treated with respect. Next time you enjoy a fresh fig, you can appreciate the intricate protective system that helped it ripen safely.

Exploring the diverse uses of fig latex

Interestingly, the same potent enzymes that make the sap an irritant have also been harnessed by humans for useful applications. The ficin enzyme is a powerful protein-dissolving agent, making it historically valuable. For instance, in some cultures, it has been used as a natural rennet for curdling milk to make cheese. This demonstrates how a single botanical product can contain both protective and practical properties, depending on its application and the knowledge of its handler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the white liquid, or latex, from figs can be poisonous if ingested in large quantities and can cause skin irritation or phototoxicity (sensitivity to sunlight) on contact. However, the ripe fruit is safe to eat.

If you get fig sap on your skin, it can cause a rash, irritation, or blistering, especially when exposed to sunlight. This reaction is known as phytophotodermatitis. It's recommended to wash the affected area immediately and avoid sun exposure.

Most species within the genus Ficus, including the common fig (Ficus carica), produce a milky latex, particularly from unripe fruit, leaves, and stems. However, the quantity and potency of the sap can vary.

The fig tree uses its latex as a natural defense mechanism against insects and other herbivores that might try to eat its fruit or leaves. The sticky, bitter, and sometimes toxic nature of the sap deters predators and helps to heal wounds on the plant.

In some traditional medicine practices, fig latex has been used topically to remove warts. The proteolytic enzymes in the sap are thought to break down skin cells. However, due to its irritant properties and potential for a severe reaction, it should be used with extreme caution and after consulting a medical professional.

Yes, the presence of the white latex is an indicator that a fig is not yet fully ripe. As the fruit matures, the flow of latex decreases significantly, which is why ripe figs do not exude this sap when picked.

Ficin is a type of cysteine protease enzyme found in fig latex. It is known for its ability to break down proteins and has been used in various applications, including meat tenderization and cheese-making. It is one of the key active compounds in the milky sap.