Phoenix dactylifera: traditional uses, chemical constituents, nutritional benefit and therapeutic effects

Abstract

Phoenix dactylifera (Fam: Arecaceae) is originated from the Mesopotamia. The date fruit, was eaten fresh, in various processed forms and dried. The fruits were used traditionally as general tonic, for the treatment of liver diseases, memory disturbances, fever, inflammation, paralysis, loss of consciousness, nervous disorders and consumed by pregnant women before and after delivery. However, all parts of the plant were used for some purpose. Dates fruits were considered a complete diet and a very important item of food, with plenty of vitamins and minerals. It contained a wide range of secondary metabolites. It possessed many pharmacological effects included anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-toxin, cardiovascular, hypolipidemic, gastrointestinal, immunomodullatory, neural, hepato and reno-protective, reproductive and wound healing effects. This review highlighted the chemical constituents, nutritional and pharmacological effects of Phoenix dactylifera.