A comprehensive review on the neuropharmacological effects of Phoenix dactylifera and the potential role of its phenolic constituents

Abstract

Nutraceuticals and natural products are increasingly popular for their therapeutic potential and long-standing role in traditional medicine. Phoenix dactylifera, or the date palm, is recognized for its nutritional and medicinal benefits and is gaining attention for its potential in neuropharmacological applications. The date palm's neuroprotective potential is linked to its high phenolic content, which supports central nervous system (CNS) health and possibly prevents neurodegenerative diseases. Date palm extracts modulate neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, dopamine, and GABA, enhancing memory, cognitive function, and pain relief. Additionally, the plant exhibits aphrodisiac properties and may reduce anxiety, shorten labor, and ease labor pain during pregnancy. Date palm phenolics combat oxidative stress and inhibit key inflammatory pathways by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines like NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-1β. It also suppresses the synthesis of eicosanoids, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), all involved in inflammation. However, challenges such as poor bioavailability, enzymatic degradation, and limited blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability hinder their therapeutic potential. Advanced encapsulation technologies, including liposomes, nanoemulsions, and polymeric micelles, offer effective solutions by protecting phenolics, enhancing bioavailability, and enabling targeted delivery to the brain, amplifying their efficacy. The phenolic content of date palms varies across cultivars, influencing their therapeutic properties and highlighting the importance of cultivar-specific profiling for targeted applications. This review explores the neuropharmacological effects of Phoenix dactylifera, emphasizing its phenolic compounds' therapeutic potential and the role of encapsulation technologies in overcoming key bioavailability and delivery challenges for CNS health management.