Figging

Figging is a kink practice where a peeled piece of ginger (traditionally carved into a plug shape) is inserted into the anus, vagina, or, less commonly, the urethra. This creates a warming, tingling, or burning sensation. People describe it as like a strong mouthwash (but for your ass,) similar to warming lubes, or like a "nuclear meltdown" in the rectum. This play is often combined with canes or other impact implements used to hit recipient so that their muscles will contract and squeeze out more of the ginger juices, resulting in more discomfort. ### Origins of the Term Figging comes from the word "feague," which referred to the practice of putting ginger (or other irritants, like pepper or a live eel!) into a horse's anus. Yes, this apparently really happened, and it was done to make the animal carry its tail higher and appear more lively. It is also said to have been used figuratively to refer to encouraging a person or "spiriting them up." It has been speculated that the kink practice of figging arose during Victorian times, but those claims are unsubstantiated. But, at some point, people started putting ginger in their butts for kinky fun, and the rest is history! ### Why People Are Into It People try figging for a lot of reasons. Here are a few you'll hear most often. ### Pleasure and Pain While the burning sensation of the ginger isn't for everyone, some people enjoy the mix of pain and pleasure. Movement or spanking can make the bum flare up, adding an element of control and humiliation for those playing with Dom/sub dynamics. ### Anticipation and Buildup Because the sensation grows slowly, it can force the sub to sit in a state of expectation. This can make the whole scene more intense. ### Loss of Control For subs, the burning sensation the ginger produces isn't something you can fight through. Clenching makes it worse, moving makes it worse - so they’re forced into surrender. ### Adrenaline Many people say that enduring the burn provides an adrenaline rush or emotional release. ### Safety and Consent When it comes to putting anything in your bum, it pays to take precautions. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not have an end point, and things can be sucked up beyond human reach. This typically results in a trip to the emergency room. You can avoid this by shaping your ginger plug like a butt plug, with as large of a base as possible. Some people also tie a string to the ginger to ensure that it can be removed. You should also skip figging if you've ever had any kind of reaction to ginger. As with all types of kinky play, start slow, communicate and have a safe word. After play the sensation can last, but can be reduced by using water or melting ice-cubes.