Fig Leaves (Ficus carica L.): Source of Bioactive Ingredients for Industrial Valorization

The fig tree (Ficus carica L.) was one of the first domesticated trees. In 2019, world’s fruit production estimated at 1153 tons. However, leaves are not utilized, resulting in copious quantities bio-waste. To identify promising varieties, hydroethanolic extracts were prepared from five varieties (Pasteliere—PA, Longue d’Aout—LA, Dauphinie—DA, Boujassote Noire—BN, and Marseille—MA). variety with highest concentration organic acids BN (146.5 mg/g dw), while glucose, fructose, sucrose predominant sugars across all varieties. All present α-tocopherol as prevalent tocopherol isoform (above 78%), PUFA fatty predominant, ranging 53% to 71% total acids. showed moderate antioxidant activity (EC50 0.23 ± 0.01 mg/mL), DA presented cytotoxicity against tumor AGS MCF-7 cell line (GI50 158 13 223 21 μg/mL) especially inhibition Nitric Oxide Production evaluation (IC50 20 5 μg/mL). activities probably related high concentrations flavonoids, specifically apigenin-C-hexoside-C-pentoside quercetin-O-deoxyhexosyl-hexoside. Finally, good antimicrobial activity, Yersinia enterocolitica. Fig can be considered sustainable sources industrially valuable bioactive molecules, several potential applications highlighted.