Nutraceuticals of Phoenix dactylifera L.: Physicochemistry, Nutritional Value and Therapeutic Potential

Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) is a widely cultivated fruit tree valued for its nutritional richness and diverse bioactive profile. This review aimed to critically synthesize current evidence of physicochemical characteristics, nutrient composition, and pharmacological potential of date palm fruits, seeds, and leaves. Relevant literature was retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, with emphasis on extraction methodologies, nutritional attributes, phytochemical constituents, therapeutics properties, and translational relevance. Date palm products are rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, essential minerals, and phenolic and flavonoid compounds, such as gallic acid, catechin, quercetin, and ferulic acid, which underpin their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Experimental studies further suggest potential antimicrobial, antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-arthritic, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and gastroprotective effects. Notably, date seeds, often discarded as agricultural by-products, also exhibit substantial polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity, supporting their potential value in nutraceutical applications. However, the majority of reported biological effects are derived from in vitro and in vivo models, with limited and heterogeneous clinical evidence. Although accumulating preclinical findings highlight the functional and therapeutic promise of P. dactylifera L. important gaps remain regarding extract standardization, bioavailability, dose-response relationships, safety profiling, and clinical efficacy. Addressing these challenges is essential to facilitate evidence-based development of sustainable date palm-derived functional foods, dietary supplements, and potential pharmaceutical applications.