Phoenix dactylifera: An update of its indegenous uses,phytochemistry and pharmacology

Phoenix dactylifera L (Date palm) belonging to family Arecaceae, called ‘Nakhla’ and the ‘Tree of Life’ by the Arabs, is considered as one of the oldest cultivated fruit trees. It is believed to be indigenous to the countries around the Arabian Gulf. Many Middle Easterners believe that consumption of date fruits, particularly in the morning on an empty stomach, can reverse the actions of any toxic material that the subject may have been exposed to. Different parts of this plant are traditionally claimed to be used for the treatment of a broad spectrum of ailments including memory disturbances, fever, loss of consciousness and nervous disorders. There has been a tremendous interest in this plant as evidenced by the voluminous work in last few decades. Therefore, we aimed to compile an up to date and comprehensive review of Phoenix dactylifera that covers its traditional and folk medicine uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology including various preclinical and clinical studies.