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Dates
Dates
Dates or the famous khajur is also known as Date palm. It is a sweet edible fruit, rich in carbohydrates, potassium, manganese and iron having various medicinal properties.
Dates help to improve digestion and prevent constipation as they have a high fiber content. They also improve bone health due to the presence of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
When taken in a limited amount, Dates are considered good for diabetic patients as they have a low glycemic index due to which they do not cause a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. Dates also support mental health and help manage memory related issues due to their antioxidant property. The antioxidants present in Dates also help impart a smooth texture to the skin and prevent signs of ageing. Adding Dates to your daily diet might be beneficial in managing anemia as they improve haemoglobin level due to high iron content. They help maintain overall health and vigor.
Due to the high antioxidant content, applying a paste of Dates with milk and honey on the skin helps to get rid of wrinkles.
As per Ayurveda, excessive consumption of Dates avoided as they are Guru (heavy) in nature and are heavy to digest[1][3].
Dates help to improve digestion and prevent constipation as they have a high fiber content. They also improve bone health due to the presence of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
When taken in a limited amount, Dates are considered good for diabetic patients as they have a low glycemic index due to which they do not cause a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. Dates also support mental health and help manage memory related issues due to their antioxidant property. The antioxidants present in Dates also help impart a smooth texture to the skin and prevent signs of ageing. Adding Dates to your daily diet might be beneficial in managing anemia as they improve haemoglobin level due to high iron content. They help maintain overall health and vigor.
Due to the high antioxidant content, applying a paste of Dates with milk and honey on the skin helps to get rid of wrinkles.
As per Ayurveda, excessive consumption of Dates avoided as they are Guru (heavy) in nature and are heavy to digest[1][3].
What are the synonyms of Dates?
Phoenix dactylifera, khaji, Date palm, khajur[1].
What is the source of Dates?
Plant Based
Benefits of Dates
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Dates may be useful in managing cough[21][22].
Ayurvedic View
Cough is commonly known as a Kapha disorder in Ayurveda. It is generally caused by the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract. Eating Dates help to remove accumulated mucus due to its Kapha balancing property. Dates also help to improve immunity and control persistent cough and cold.
Tips:
1. Take some dry Dates.
2. Soak them in water overnight.
3. Eat them in the morning on an empty stomach to manage cough and cold.
Tips:
1. Take some dry Dates.
2. Soak them in water overnight.
3. Eat them in the morning on an empty stomach to manage cough and cold.
How effective is Dates?
Insufficient evidence
Cough
Precautions when using Dates
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Dates in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Dates supplements during breastfeeding[2].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Dates in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Dates supplements during pregnancy[2].
Recommended Dosage of Dates
- Dates Powder - ¼ - ½ teaspoon twice a day.
How to use Dates
1. Date Fruit
a. Take 2-4 pieces of Dates.
b. Enjoy it as a snack whenever you feel like.
2. Dates Powder
a. Take ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Dates powder.
b. Add milk to it.
c. Swallow it preferably before taking food.
a. Take 2-4 pieces of Dates.
b. Enjoy it as a snack whenever you feel like.
2. Dates Powder
a. Take ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Dates powder.
b. Add milk to it.
c. Swallow it preferably before taking food.
Benefits of Dates
Modern Science View
Dates have antioxidant and anti-aging property due to the presence of phytohormones. They may be useful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles[3][20][23].
Ayurvedic View
Dates help to control wrinkles and delay the sign of aging. According to Ayurveda, wrinkles are due to an aggravated Vata. Dates have Vata balancing property and applying a paste of Dates on the skin helps in controlling wrinkles. It increases the moisture content in the skin because of its Snigdha (oily) nature.
Tips:
1. Take some seedless Dates and soak in milk.
2. Leave it overnight and blend them to make a thick paste with honey.
3. Apply this on the face and keep for 15-20 minutes.
4. Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
5. Repeat once a week to control fine lines and wrinkles.
Tips:
1. Take some seedless Dates and soak in milk.
2. Leave it overnight and blend them to make a thick paste with honey.
3. Apply this on the face and keep for 15-20 minutes.
4. Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
5. Repeat once a week to control fine lines and wrinkles.
How effective is Dates?
Insufficient evidence
Wrinkles
FAQs about Dates benefits
Precautions when using Dates
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Use Dates with rose water or honey if your skin is hypersensitive.
How to use Dates
1. Dates Face Mask
a. Take some seedless dates and soak in milk.
b. Leave it overnight and blend them to make a thick paste with honey .
c. Apply this on the face and keep for 15-20 minutes.
d. Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
e. Repeat once a week to control fine lines and wrinkles.
a. Take some seedless dates and soak in milk.
b. Leave it overnight and blend them to make a thick paste with honey .
c. Apply this on the face and keep for 15-20 minutes.
d. Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
e. Repeat once a week to control fine lines and wrinkles.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Dates are healthy, but too many dates may raise your sugar level and calories[1].
Ayurvedic View
Eating too many Dates can cause stomach problems like gas or bloating. This is because Dates are Guru (heavy) in nature and takes time to digest. Dates can also increase your blood sugar level and weight due to its Madhur (sweet) property.
Modern Science View
Dates are actually a reservoir of energy. It contains abundant glucose, sucrose and fructose. Its nutritional efficiency will increase when taken with milk.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dates can be taken with milk if your digestive fire (Agni) is healthy. A combination of Dates and milk will give you energy and increase your stamina as both have Balya (tonic) properties .
Modern Science View
Dates have a shelf life of about 6 months. If it is packed in an airtight container or a airtight polybag and kept in refrigerator it will remain fresh for more than 1 year.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may go bad. There are few signs which indicate that you can not continue to use them.
1. The Dates are discolored and developed molds.
2. If some foul smell is there.
3. If you find some pests or mites in your Dates.
1. The Dates are discolored and developed molds.
2. If some foul smell is there.
3. If you find some pests or mites in your Dates.
Modern Science View
Dates contain easily digestible sugar like glucose, fructose, sucrose and dietary fibre. But it is advisable not to take in excess amount as it might increase your blood sugar as well as weight[1].
Ayurvedic View
Eating Dates in excess amount may increase your blood sugar level because it is Madhur (sweet) in taste as well as after Vipaka (after digestion). Taking Dates in daily diet or excess amount can affect your blood sugar levels.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be good for diabetics. They contain certain bioactive compounds that have antidiabetic activity. Dates have a low glycemic index due to which they do not cause major fluctuations in blood glucose levels. This helps maintain sugar levels in diabetics[4][5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates are highly nutritious low glycemic index food that have several health benefits. Dates are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fibre, vitamin B, minerals and antioxidants. They contain various phytochemicals that may protect against many chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer[9][10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be beneficial for heart. Dates have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic and cardioprotective property. It helps strengthen the heart muscles and may protect against various cardiovascular diseases[8][9].
Modern Science View
Yes, Date may be beneficial for kidney. Dates contain melatonin, vitamin E and ascorbic acid that have antioxidant property. Dates have nephroprotective effect and lower the level of creatinine and urea[6][7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be useful in managing high blood pressure due to its antihypertensive property. They are rich in dietary fibre and sodium and potassium that help in lowering blood pressure in hypertensive individuals[11-13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be useful in managing constipation. Dates are rich in sucrose and phenolic compounds. They stimulate the activity of gastrointestinal tract and enhances intestinal transit time (Time taken for food to leave the stomach and travel through the intestines leading to excretion)[14][15].
Ayurvedic View
Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata Dosha. This can be due to the frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, stress and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Dates help correct constipation due to its Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative) properties. It removes excessive dryness from the intestine, adds bulk to the stool and helps in easy expulsion.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be beneficial for sleep. Dates have potent sedative effect that may prolong the duration of sleep as well as reduce the time to fall into deep sleep[18][19].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be useful in managing sore throat. This is due to certain compounds in Dates with astringent property[16][17].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dates are good for sore throat. It gives a soothing effect and reduces cough due to its Kashaya (astringent)and Kapha balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be useful in lowering cholesterol level. Dates are fat and cholesterol free and rich in fibre content. It helps in lowering plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein. Dates also contain an appropriate amount of sodium and help reduce the risk of high blood pressure levels[9][12][16].
Modern Science View
1. Black dates are rich in dietary fibre. Dates consist of vitamins like B-Complex, vitamin C and minerals like magnesium, potassium, copper and selenium which helps to manage bone health. It is also a good source of antioxidants which helps to maintain heart health and prevent cell damage.
2. Black dates are a good source of energy due to the presence of sugars like glucose.
3. Black dates might also be helpful in fever, wound healing in diabetes, swelling, stomach and intestinal disorders due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-diabetic and liver-protective properties. Also black Dates are helpful in the management of reproductive health and cancers due to the presence of certain active compounds[4-7].
2. Black dates are a good source of energy due to the presence of sugars like glucose.
3. Black dates might also be helpful in fever, wound healing in diabetes, swelling, stomach and intestinal disorders due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-diabetic and liver-protective properties. Also black Dates are helpful in the management of reproductive health and cancers due to the presence of certain active compounds[4-7].
Ayurvedic View
1. Black dates are very beneficial for health because it is useful in managing all the three doshas.
2. It is helpful in managing stomach and intestinal infections due to its Sita (cold) and Pitta balancing properties.
3. It is also beneficial in cough and cold problems which occurs due to an imbalanced Kapha dosha, due to its Kapha balancing property.
4. It might also be helpful in some other conditions like diabetes which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha, due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
2. It is helpful in managing stomach and intestinal infections due to its Sita (cold) and Pitta balancing properties.
3. It is also beneficial in cough and cold problems which occurs due to an imbalanced Kapha dosha, due to its Kapha balancing property.
4. It might also be helpful in some other conditions like diabetes which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha, due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, consumption of dates at night might help to manage insomnia and sleep disturbances due to its sedative (sleep inducing) effect[8].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dates might be beneficial in promoting good sleep if taken at night due to its Snigdha (oily) property. Dates also has Vata balancing property that helps to relieve stress which is a very common factor of insomnia and occurs due to an imbalanced Vata dosha.
Modern Science View
Yes. Dates might help to improve bone health. Dates are rich in minerals such as magnesium, copper, calcium, selenium and manganese, all essential for bone health[9].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dates might help to improve bone health due to its Balya (strength provider) and Madhur (sweet) properties. It provides enough nutrition which is necessary to improve bone health.
Modern Science View
Dates are rich in antioxidants and therefore protect the cells from damage (neuroprotective). This neuroprotective property of Dates helps to manage neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD) and dementia[10][11].
Ayurvedic View
Dates might help to strengthen the nervous system due to its Balya (strength provider) property. It also provides nourishment to the nerves which becomes dry due to an imbalanced Vata dosha. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) and Vata balancing properties.
Modern Science View
No such scientific evidence supporting this statement was found. However eating too many Dates can cause stomach discomfort due to its high sugar content[12].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dates might help in weight gain due to its Madhur (sweet) and Balya (strength provider) properties. This helps to improve your energy level and nourishes the Rasa dhatu, hence increasing your weight.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates might help to improve brain health. Dates are rich in antioxidants and therefore protect the cells from damage (neuroprotective). This neuroprotective property of dates helps to manage neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD) and dementia[10][11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates might help reduce the risk of anemia due to the presence of essential minerals like iron[9].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dates can help manage anemia by improving the haemoglobin level in the body. This is due to its Madhur (sweet) property which increases Rasa and Rakta Dhatu.
Modern Science View
Date fruit consist of chemical components that helps in the formation of sperm (spermatogenesis), balances male hormone and regulates aphrodisiac activity. This helps in maintaining reproductive health and reducing the risk of sexual dysfunction[9].
Ayurvedic View
Dates helps to reduce the risk of sexual dysfunction and improves sexual health due to its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property.
Modern Science View
Yes , it is healthy to eat dried dates. They have the same beneficial properties as the fresh date fruits except for the less sugar and mineral content lost due to drying process. However, dried dates due to less calorie and sugar content are beneficial for sugar patients and are recommended to be included in the diet designed for diabetic patients. Also dried dates have the highest antioxidant content among all kinds of dried fruits[13][14].
Modern Science View
The average protein content of fresh and dried dates is 1.50 and 2.14 g/100 g, respectively[15].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be beneficial for the skin. Dates are rich in antioxidants, have anti-aging, regenerative, soothing and firming properties. They may be useful in reducing wrinkles and making skin healthy[20][23-25].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dates may be good for reducing aging. Dates contain certain compounds that have antioxidizing, regenerative and anti-aging property[24][25].
References
- Ahmed A, Soni DS, Singh KV, et al. Phoenix dactylifera LINN.(Pind Kharjura):A Review.Int.J.Res.Ayurveda Pharm.2013;4(3):447-451.
- WebMD.Date-palm: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Rock W, Rosenblat M, Borochov-Neori H, et al.Effects of Date ( Phoenix dactylifera L., Medjool or Hallawi Variety) consumption by healthy subjects on serum glucose and lipid levels and on serum oxidative status: a pilot study.J Agric Food Chem. 2009;57(17):8010-7.
- Rahmani AH, Aly SM, Ali H, et al.Therapeutic effects of date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera) in the prevention of diseases via modulation of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumour activity. Int J Clin Exp Med. 2014 Mar 15;7(3):483-91.
- Al-Farsi MA, Lee CY.Nutritional and functional properties of dates: A review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2008 Nov;48(10):877-87.
- Al-Alawi RA, Al-Mashiqri JH, Al-Nadabi JSM, et al.Date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera L.): Natural products and therapeutic options.Front Plant Sci.2017;8:845.
- Palacios C.The role of nutrients in bone health, from A to Z. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(8):621-8.
- Rahimi S, Alaei H, Reisi P, et al. The effect of hydro-alcoholic of Phoenix Dactylifera extract on sleep and EEG in the rat. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2017;7(6):511-518.
- Saryono, Anggraeni MD, Rahmawati E. Effects of dates fruit (Phoenix dactylifera l.) in the female reproductive process. IJRAMR.2016;7(3):1630-1633
- Mallhi TH, Qadir MI, Ali M, et al.Review: Ajwa date (Phoenix dactylifera)- An emerging plant in pharmacological research.Pak J Pharm Sci. 2014;27(3):607-16.
- Essa MM, Akbar M, Khan MA.Beneficial effects of date palm fruits on neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res. 2016;11(7):1071-2.
- Ahmed A, Soni DS, Singh KV, et al.Phoenix dactylifera LINN.(Pind Kharjura):A Review.Int.J.Res.Ayurveda Pharm.2013;4(3):447-451.
- .Hossain Sharif ABM.Dried Dates Fruit and its Biochemical and Nutrient Content: Uses as Diabetic Food. Asian J. Clin. Nutr. 2015;7 (3):90-95.
- Vinson JA, Zubik L, Bose P, et.al. Dried fruits: excellent in vitro and in vivo antioxidants. J Am Coll Nutr. 2005;24(1):44-50.
- Ali A, Waly MI, Musthafa ME, et.al. Nutritional and Medicinal Value of Date Fruit. Dates: Production, Processing, Food, and Medicinal Values.2012;50(1):361-375.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.