Fig trees produce a white, milky substance known as fig latex or “fig milk” when the leaves or stems are broken. This sap is not deadly poisonous if ingested in small quantities, but it is a strong irritant and a potent chemical defense. The primary health concern associated with fig milk is a severe, delayed skin reaction triggered by sunlight, which can cause significant injury. The risk is centered on localized chemical irritation rather than systemic poisoning.
The Chemical Components Responsible for Irritation
The milky substance from fig plants is a latex containing defensive chemical compounds. Two main components cause irritating and toxic effects on human skin: furanocoumarins (psoralens) and ficin. Furanocoumarins are potent photosensitizing agents.
These chemicals become activated when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Once activated, they damage cell membranes and DNA within skin cells, leading to a profound inflammatory response. The fig latex also contains ficin, a type of proteolytic enzyme.
Ficin breaks down proteins, contributing to immediate irritation and enhancing the effects of furanocoumarins by increasing skin permeability. These combined actions result in a severe reaction that mimics a burn, though it is fundamentally a chemical and photo-induced injury.
Symptoms from Contact and Ingestion
The most common and severe reaction to fig milk is phytophotodermatitis, a form of contact dermatitis. This reaction occurs when the sap touches the skin and is subsequently exposed to sunlight. Symptoms usually do not appear immediately but begin with burning, itching, and redness approximately 24 hours after sun exposure.
Over the next day or two, the exposed skin can develop painful blisters and bullae, often resembling a second-degree burn in severity. These blisters may appear in streaks or patterns corresponding to where the sap touched the skin. Even after the acute blistering resolves, the affected area frequently develops long-term hyperpigmentation, causing a darkened patch that can persist for months.
Ingesting small amounts of fig milk typically causes mild digestive upset due to the latex and enzymes. Symptoms might include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, as the body struggles to process the protein-degrading ficin. Severe systemic poisoning is exceedingly rare, generally only a concern if massive quantities are consumed or if the individual has a pre-existing latex allergy. An allergic reaction involves generalized symptoms like swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, requiring immediate emergency medical attention.
Safe Handling and First Aid
Preventing contact with fig sap is the most effective way to avoid phytophotodermatitis, especially when pruning or harvesting unripe figs. It is strongly recommended to wear long sleeves, pants, and waterproof gloves when working with the plants. Because the reaction is triggered by sunlight, avoiding handling the plant on bright, sunny days can also reduce the risk of a severe reaction if accidental exposure occurs.
If fig milk gets onto the skin, the affected area should be thoroughly washed immediately with soap and cool water to remove the sap before sun exposure. After washing, covering the area to protect it from sunlight for at least 48 hours is a critical step in preventing the phototoxic reaction. If blistering, severe pain, or signs of a burn develop, medical attention should be sought promptly, as severe cases may require specialized burn treatment.
For accidental ingestion, consuming water or milk to dilute the sap in the stomach is advisable, and monitoring for persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain is important. If a large amount is ingested, or if any signs of a severe allergic reaction like throat swelling or difficulty breathing occur, immediately contact local emergency services or a poison control center for guidance.