Bioactive Compounds of California Fan Palm Washingtonia filifera (Linden ex André) H. Wendl. ex de Bary

Abstract

The fruit of the California fan palm (Washingtonia filifera) is underutilized. Phytochemical analysis of the fruit has demonstrated its high nutritional values. The fruit is a good source of carbohydrates, soluble sugars, and minerals including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and zinc. The fruit has several bioactive compounds having antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, unlike other palm species, W. filifera tree is resistant to red palm weevil, which encourages its cultivation as a potential widely used food source.