A general, efficient and simple methodology for biocatalytic reduction of carbonyl compounds at room temperature using freshly cut ripen fruit of figs (Ficus carica) in aqueous medium, has been reported. It was found that the prochiral ketones could be reduced to chial secondary alcohols in a generalized way. The obtained results indicated that figs (Ficus carica) fruits can be used as biochemical catalysts to contribute to the preparation of many pharmaceutical compounds. This biochemical catalyst attracted much attention because of the low cost, high efficiency and special selectivity for its environmental friendliness and its contribution to certain recommended green chemistry principles. The aim of this research was to contribute to this area by using biochemical catalysts with plant sources such as figs (Ficus carica) fruits by different states (fresh, Juice, dried). The prochiral ketones: acetophenone was chosen as typical ketone, the yield was (78-84%), and the optical purity was (50-96%). Mild reaction condition, simple operation, and easy availability of figs (Ficus carica) fruit revealed this protocol as an attractive and alternative eco-friendly option for general reduction of all types of carbonyl compounds.
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