Phoenix dactylifera, commonly called date, is a member of the palm family Arecaceae cultivated in dry tropical regions of the world. The fruits of P. dactylifera are rich in sugar and are a good source of essential minerals and vitamins. They are eaten fresh or used as an ingredient for regional dishes in the Middle East and India and desserts in the US and Europe. The seeds can be ground into flour to make bread, and the flowers are used in salads.

P. dactylifera has been reported to have anti-oxidant activity, which is attributed to polyphenols such as phenolic acids, hydroxycinnamates, flavonoid glycosides, and proanthocyanidins. It has also been reported to have anti-allergic and anti-microbial activities against Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli.