Pharmacological and nutritional uses of Phoenix reclinata JACQ (Wild date palm)

Abstract

Phoenix reclinata Jacq, commonly known as Senegal date palm or African wild date palm, is a tree belonging to the Arecaceae family. Its fruits, pulp and cores are a rich source of dietary fiber, carbohydrates, and various essential vitamins and minerals. A comprehensive search was conducted to identify the pharmacological and nutritional value of Phoenix reclinata. Databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched using terms like “Phoenix reclinata,” “phytochemicals,” “Pharmacological activity,” “Ethno-pharmacology,” and “Anti-inflammatory.” Phoenix reclinata has medicinal uses and is employed to treat various ailments, including malaria. Phytochemical investigations of the methanol extract of the leaves revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, sterols, and phenolic compounds. The studies showed that the leaves exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, nephroprotective, antipyretic, and anti-plasmodial properties. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacological and nutritional benefits of Phoenix reclinata.