Nutritive Value, and Pharmacological Effects of Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.): A Mini Review

Abstract

Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are among the famous fruits in Egypt and other parts of the world, particularly in Arab countries. Dates are regarded as one of the fruits with high nutritive values and rich in carotenoids and flavonoids which have several pharmacological activities. This mini review highlights the contents of the different nutrients in the dates. In addition, recent studies related to the medicinal effects of dates, date seeds or their extracts were also reported. Based on the fresh weight, dates had high moisture content (15% in Tamer to 85% in Kimri stage), fiber (7.5-8%), and sugar (43.4%-64.1%) contents, particularly glucose, and fructose. In addition, dates have considerable concentrations of vitamins and minerals. However, they have relatively low concentrations of protein (1.5%-2.5%), and lipids (0.14%-0.38%). Several reports investigated the pharmacological activities of dates, date seeds, and their extracts. For instances, significant antioxidant activities, neuroprotective effects, healthy urogenital functions and hemopoietic system have been reported. Furthermore, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitoxic, and anticancer activities of date seeds, or their extracts have been additionally reported. Such beneficial healthy effects were mainly attributed to the high content of polyphenols in dates or date seeds and their extracts. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consume dates on a regular basis.