Apothecary: Syrup of Figs

I mentioned in my Herbarium: Fig post that figs can be taken in a syrup form to treat constipation. There are two different types of fig syrups. The first, Syrup of Figs, should be taken by children and delicate persons, such as the elderly. The second, Compound Syrup of Figs, should be taken by healthy adults.

Syrup of Figs

Ingredients:
     2/3 ounce dried senna pods
     1/2 cup boiling water
     1/2 cup sugar
     8 fresh figs, quartered
     Juice of 1 lemon


Directions:

1. Place the senna pods in a glass bowl and pour boiling water over them. Let them steep for 30 minutes. Strain through a sieve or muslin into a blender. Add sugar and figs and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a saucepan and heat slowly on med-low heat to reduce, stirring occasionally, about 25 minutes. Do not boil. Should be thick, sugar-like syrup. Add lemon and remove from heat. Pour into a sterilized bottle.
3. Shake well before use. Take 2 teaspoons when needed but no more than 3 times a day. Can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks.

To make Compound Syrup of Figs add two finely chopped stalks of rhubarb to the blender

Good luck making your own! Let me know if you try this recipe and how it works for you!