1,4 Goel Institute of Pharmacy and Sciences, Lucknow, 226028, India
2 CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, 226015, India
3 University of Calicut, Kerala, 673635, India
A fruit-bearing plant known for more than just its nutritional value is the date palm, or Phoenix dactylifera L. but also because of its extensive pharmacological potential. This thorough analysis highlights the date palm's therapeutic value in a variety of biological systems by combining the most recent research on its pharmacologically active components. A wide range of bioactive substances, including polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, saponins, and essential minerals, are included in the date palm's phytochemical profile and support its potent pharmacological effects. Numerous pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and anticancer activities, are demonstrated by evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and limited clinical studies. Modification of oxidative stress pathways, inflammatory cytokines, glycemic control systems, and apoptosis in cancerous cells are the main mechanisms by which these effects are mediated. Notably, the date palm's high phenolic content and capacity to regulate inflammation and oxidative stress in neurons are responsible for its antioxidant and neuroprotective qualities. P. dactylifera is a promising candidate for the creation of plant-based pharmacological interventions due to its therapeutic versatility. To completely understand and utilize its pharmacotherapeutic potential, however, stringent clinical trials and extract standardization are necessary, even in light of the promising preclinical data.
The date palm, or Phoenix dactylifera is belongs to an Arecaceae family. and is one of the earliest fruit-bearing plant to be cultivated. It is referred to number of regional names, like Tamr (Arabic), Khajoor (Hindi/Urdu), Nakhl (Persian), and Palmier dattier (French). it Grown widely in North Africa, Southwest Asia, and chunks of Southern Europe, this monocotyledonous, dioecious species is valued for its nutritional, cultural, and therapeutic value. [1].
Other Species:
There are roughly 14–17 species in the genus Phoenix (family: Arecaceae), which can be found in Southern Europe, South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. even though Phoenix dactylifera is the genus' most economically and culturally important member, a number of other species are valued for their ecological, decorative, or ethnobotanical qualities. Phoenix sylvestris (Indian wild date), Phoenix rupicola (Cliff date palm), Phoenix acaulis (Dwarf date palm), Phoenix roebelenii (Pygmy date palm), Phoenix paludosa, Phoenix theophrasti, Phoenix atlantica, and Phoenix loureiroi are among the notable species. Since these species are known to hybridize easily and have a wide range of morphologies and habitat preferences, taxonomic clarity and genetic conservation strategies are made more difficult [2].
Taxonomical Classification:
Parts Used:
Almost every part of the date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., is used for traditional, medicinal, or nutritional purposes. These consist of most widely used component is fruit, which is high in fiber, sugars, polyphenols, and vital minerals. Seeds (Pits), Used in traditional medicine and researched for their anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidant qualities. Leaves, Rich in tannins, leaves have long been used in decoctions to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. Bark, In traditional medicine, used to treat gastrointestinal issues and antimicrobials. Roots, Used occasionally for their antimicrobial and diuretic properties in traditional systems. In North Africa, sap, or date palm juice, is referred to as "lagmi" and is used either fresh or fermented for tonic and digestive purposes [3].
Occurrence and Distribution:
Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is the earliest fruit trees to be cultivated, and its admired for its cultural, culinary, and therapeutic use. Because it can withstand heat, drought, and saline soils, this tall monocot of the Arecaceae family grows well in arid and semi-arid environments [4]. Indigenous Nowadays, it can be found in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, India, Middle East and North Africa, and portions of USA and Europe [5]. Fruit quality is boosted by optimal growth in areas with high sun and little rainfall [6].
Literature Search:
To assess the pharmacological activities, phytochemicals, and traditional uses, a thorough literature search was done of Phoenix dactylifera L. Sources included Google Scholar, PubMed, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. Keywords such as “Phoenix dactylifera,” “date palm,” “phytoconstituents,” and “therapeutic potential” were used. The PICOS model guided study selection: Population included humans, animals, and cell lines; Intervention focused on extracts or bioactive compounds; Comparison involved baseline or extraction variations; Outcomes targeted pharmacological effects; and Study design encompassed reviews, RCTs, and lab studies. This approach ensured a comprehensive and scientifically robust evaluation of date palm's therapeutic relevance.
Study Design:
This review included only peer-reviewed English-language research articles with robust experimental designs on the pharmacological and nutritional properties of Phoenix dactylifera L. Eligible studies were in vitro, in vivo animal models, and clinical trials assessing efficacy or safety. Excluded materials comprised dissertations, abstracts, case reports, letters, and non-full-text articles. Selection involved database searches, screening of abstracts and titles, and full-text review to remove duplicates and irrelevant studies. Outcomes focused on nutraceutical or therapeutic potential and clinical benefits or harms. The GRADE system was applied to evaluate evidence strength, while reviews were excluded to prevent bias, though relevant primary studies cited therein were included.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE:
Ziziphus mauritiana, or Indian jujube, is valued both as traditional medicine and nutrition. Per 100 g edible portion, it contains high moisture (81–83%), carbohydrates (17%), protein (0.8%), dietary fiber (1.3 g), and essential vitamins like ascorbic acid (65–76 mg) and niacin (0.7–0.9 mg) [7-8-9]. It also provides minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron, plus sugars like galactose and fructose, making it a nutritious food source especially in rural and arid areas [10-11]. Table 1 lists the nutritional makeup of Phoenix dactylifera fruit on a fresh weight basis (per 100 g).
Table 1: Nutritional Composition of Phoenix dactylifera (Date Palm Fruit) per 100g Fresh Weight
|
Constituent |
Amount per 100g |
Reference |
|
Moisture (g) |
13–25 |
[12] |
|
Protein (g) |
1.8–5.6 |
[13] |
|
Fat (g) |
0.2–0.5 |
[13] |
|
Carbohydrates (g) |
74.5–88.0 |
[14] |
|
Total Sugars (g) |
63.35–77.7 |
[12] |
|
Dietary Fiber (g) |
6.4–11.5 |
[15] |
|
Ash (g) |
1.4–6.2 |
[12] |
|
Energy (kcal) |
307–368 |
[14] |
|
Calcium (mg) |
80.2–469.1 |
[14] |
|
Phosphorus (mg) |
57–134 |
[12] |
|
Iron (mg) |
2.45–7.3 |
[14] |
|
Potassium (mg) |
684–7128 |
[14] |
|
Magnesium (mg) |
58–294.5 |
[14] |
|
Sodium (mg) |
18.9–123.3 |
[14] |
|
Vitamin A (μg) |
10.5–26 (as β-carotene equivalent) |
[16] |
|
Thiamine (mg) |
0.01–0.02 |
[16] |
|
Riboflavin (mg) |
0.02–0.04 |
[16] |
|
Niacin (mg) |
0.7–0.9 |
[16] |
|
Vitamin C (mg) |
30–50 |
[16] |
Traditional Uses of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) in Folk Medicine:
The date palm, or Phoenix dactylifera, used for a variety of medicinal purposes in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Its fruit has been utilized as a nutritional remedy, aphrodisiac, tonic, and digestive aid. Seeds are used to treat headaches, eye conditions, and as a complement to coffee. Leaves have antimicrobial properties and aid in wound healing. Pollen promotes fertility, sap facilitates digestion and has diuretic properties, and roots cure fever and skin ulcers [17-18].
PHYTOCHEMISTRY:
Date palm, or Phoenix dactylifera, is famous for diverse phytochemical profile contain a wide range of active ingredients like phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and sterols. These ingredients support its therapeutic and nutritional features. Based on recent chemical structure studies now good understanding of these compound possible health benefit [19]. Table 2 provides a thorough explanation of phytochemistry.
Key Phytochemical Constituents and Their Structures:
The chemical structures of important phytochemicals found in Phoenix dactylifera have been identified and demonstrated in a number of studies:
Phenolic Acids:
Compounds like caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and gallic acid have been characterized, with their structures detailed in phytochemical analyses [16].
Carotenoids:
Carotenoids like β-carotene and lutein have been identified, contributing to the antioxidant properties of dates [19].
Fatty Acids:
Compound like Fatty acids are plentiful in P. dactylifera seed oil. also high levels of saturated fatty acids were found according to analysis performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Saturated Fatty Acids (SAFAs) like lauric acid (15.97%), palmitic acid (13.46%), and myristic acid (13.00%). Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), particularly oleic acid, constituted 38.75% of the total fatty acids [20].
Phytosterols
Phytosterols such as β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol are present in various parts of the date palm. These compounds are known for their cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects [21].
Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides extracted from date seeds and flesh exhibit significant health benefits. Xylose was the predominant monosaccharide in seed polysaccharides (72.2%), while galactose was most abundant in flesh polysaccharides (41.6%). These polysaccharides have demonstrated prebiotic potential and the ability to modulate gut microbiota [22].
Table 2. Phytochemicals identified in different parts of Phoenix dactylifera
|
S. No. |
Compound Class |
Compound Name |
Plant Part(s) |
References |
|
1 |
Phenolic Acid |
Gallic acid |
Fruits, Seeds |
[23] |
|
2 |
Phenolic Acid |
Vanillic acid |
Fruits, Seeds |
[23] |
|
3 |
Phenolic Acid |
Caffeic acid |
Seeds |
[24] |
|
4 |
Phenolic Acid |
Syringic acid |
Seeds |
[26] |
|
5 |
Phenolic Acid |
p-Coumaric acid |
Seeds |
[24] |
|
6 |
Phenolic Acid |
Ferulic acid |
Fruits, Seeds |
[24] |
|
7 |
Phenolic Acid |
Sinapic acid |
Fruits, Seeds |
[24] |
|
8 |
Flavonoid |
Kaempferol |
Fruits, Seeds |
[23] |
|
9 |
Flavonoid |
Quercetin |
Fruits, Seeds |
[23] |
|
10 |
Flavonoid |
Isorhamnetin |
Seeds |
[23] |
|
11 |
Flavonoid |
Rutin |
Seeds |
[25] |
|
12 |
Procyanidin |
Procyanidin B1 |
Seeds |
[27] |
|
13 |
Procyanidin |
Procyanidin B2 |
Seeds |
[28] |
|
14 |
Procyanidin |
Procyanidin A2 |
Seeds |
[29] |
|
15 |
Phytosterol |
β-Sitosterol |
Seeds |
[13] |
|
16 |
Phytosterol |
β-Sitosteryl-3-O-β-glucoside |
Fruits, Seeds |
[13] |
PHARMACOLOGY:
In date palm, or Phoenix dactylifera L. new pharmacological research has demonstrated its therapeutic potential and linked a number of health advantages to its varied bioactive components, such as polysaccharides, phenolics, flavonoids, and sterols. Numerous pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, and cardiovascular-protective effects, are facilitated by these constituents [29]. A summary of the findings from some of these studies is given in Table 3 below.
1. Antioxidant Activity:
The high concentration of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamins in date palm contributes to its potent antioxidant qualities. These components effectively scavenge free radicals, inhibit lipid peroxidation, and boost the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Studies have demonstrated that date palm extracts may lower oxidative stress, a significant factor in the development of many chronic diseases [30].
Table 3 Biological and Pharmacological Properties of Phoenix dactylifera
|
No. |
Plant Part |
Extract Type |
Tested Concentration |
Biological/Pharmacological Effect |
Reference |
|
1 |
Seeds |
Methanolic |
Not specified |
Significant antioxidant and antibacterial activity |
[31] |
|
2 |
Fruit Pulp |
Methanolic |
Not specified |
Protection against diabetic cardiomyopathy |
[32] |
|
3 |
Seeds |
Methanolic |
IC??: 17.45 mg/mL |
Anticancer activity via caspase-3 pathway |
[33] |
|
4 |
Leaves, Seeds, Fruits |
Ethanolic |
IC??: 475–985 μg/mL |
Cytotoxicity against cancer cells |
[34] |
|
5 |
Fruit |
PEGylated Nanoemulsion |
IC??: 13.5–18.6 µg/mL |
Enhanced anticancer effects |
[35] |
|
6 |
Pits |
Acetone |
100–1000 μg/mL |
Antiviral activity |
[36] |
|
7 |
Parthenocarpic Fruit |
Aqueous-Ethanolic |
IC??: 0.6–2.5 mg/mL |
α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition |
[37] |
|
8 |
Seeds |
Aqueous |
0.0049–0.049 mg/mL |
Strong antioxidant activity |
[38] |
|
9 |
Flowers |
Protease Inhibitor |
Not specified |
Antimicrobial and antitumoral activity |
[39] |
|
10 |
Seeds |
Aqueous-Ethanolic |
0.2–1% w/v |
Enhanced antioxidant and bioavailability |
[40] |
|
11 |
Seeds |
Polysaccharide Extract |
Not specified |
Prebiotic and lipid profile improvement |
[41] |
|
12 |
Pits |
Acetone |
100–1000 μg/mL |
Inhibited phage infectivity |
[42] |
|
13 |
Fruit |
PEGylated Nanoemulsion |
IC??: 13.5–18.6 µg/mL |
Cancer cell cytotoxicity |
[43] |
|
14 |
Flowers |
True Lectins |
Not specified |
Synergistic anticancer peptide activity |
[44] |
|
15 |
Fruit |
Ethanolic |
MIC: 8.17–24.20 μg/mL |
Antimicrobial and antioxidant effects |
[45] |
2. Anticancer Activity:
The fruits, seeds, leaves, and roots of the date palm have demonstrated cytotoxic effects on a variety of cancer cell lines. Mechanisms like cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction mediate these effects. Notably, through caspase-3-dependent pathways, seed extracts have shown pro-apoptotic effects in human breast cancer cells [46].
3. Antidiabetic Activity:
Diabetes has long been treated with date palm seeds. Their antidiabetic effects have been validated by scientific studies, which have demonstrated notable improvements in oxidative stress markers and blood glucose levels in diabetic models. Modification of insulin secretion and improvement of glucose absorption are responsible for the hypoglycemic effect.[47].
4. Hepatoprotective and Nephroprotective Effects:
Extracts from date palms have shown promise in preventing damage to the kidneys and liver. Their antioxidant properties, which lessen oxidative stress and enhance the histopathological architecture of these organs, are responsible for these effects. Consuming date palm has been found to help treat liver and kidney damage brought on by a variety of toxins [38].
5. Neuroprotective Effects:
The date palm's polyphenolic compounds, which have antioxidant qualities and may slow down neurodegenerative processes, are thought to have neuroprotective potential. Research indicates that by preventing oxidative stress, lowering inflammation, and blocking neurotoxic pathways, these substances support the preservation of neuronal integrity [48].
6. Antimicrobial Activity:
Extracts from date palms have demonstrated antimicrobial qualities against a range of pathogens. For example, date palm extracts and antibiotics have shown synergistic effects against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. The presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which break down microbial cell walls and suppress enzyme activity, is thought to be responsible for the antimicrobial activity [47].
7. Cardiovascular-Protective Effects:
Consuming date palm may have cardiovascular benefits, according to new research. Together with dietary fibers and micronutrients, the high polyphenolic content—especially flavonoids—helps to improve lipid profiles, control blood pressure, and lessen inflammation and oxidative stress. Together, these benefits promote cardiovascular health and may lower the risk of atherosclerosis and associated conditions [49].
DISCUSSION:
The date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., has a variety of pharmacological characteristics that complement its traditional medical applications while also offering promise for contemporary treatments. Its bioactivity is supported by its diverse phytochemical profile, which includes sterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Interestingly, its antioxidant properties, which are bolstered by phenolics like gallic acid, caffeic acid, and quercetin, improve endogenous enzymes like glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase [50]. supporting hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effects. Flavonoids and dietary fiber, which control blood sugar levels and enhance insulin function, are associated with antidiabetic activity. Through apoptosis pathways, emerging anticancer effects demonstrate cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. Antimicrobial potential indicates synergistic effects with antibiotics, especially against gram-positive bacteria and fungi. There are still restrictions, though, such as a lack of clinical trials, different extract compositions, and scant bioavailability information. To fully utilize the therapeutic potential of date palm, future studies should concentrate on clinical validation, standardization, and functional food applications [51].
CONCLUSION:
Phoenix dactylifera's substantial therapeutic potential is highlighted by its pharmacological characteristics. The date palm is a promising candidate for the creation of natural, plant-based treatments due to its rich phytochemical composition, which is especially rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds. To fully realize its medicinal potential and incorporate it into contemporary healthcare systems, more research—especially clinical studies—will be necessary.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST:
All authors declares that they have no conflict of interest.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
The author sincerely acknowledges the support of Goel Institute of Pharmacy and Sciences, Lucknow. Heartfelt gratitude is extended to Dr. Om Prakash, Director, for his invaluable guidance, constructive feedback, and unwavering encouragement throughout the course of this research.
REFERENCES
Sourabh Kumar*, Kavita Singh, Surya Thayana, Om Prakash, Pharmacological Properties and Therapeutic Potential of Date Palm (Phoenix Dactylifera): A Comprehensive Review, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 6, 1092-1103. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15605657
10.5281/zenodo.15605657
