Origins of the Date

The date palm is believed to have originated in the area of the Persian Gulf and the eastern sections of the Arabian Peninsula, and has been cultivated for at least 8000 years in the region spanning Mesopotamia to prehistoric Egypt (modern-day Iraq to Egypt). Although some fossil evidence seems to suggest that the tree was also native to the Americas and the Western Hemisphere, it was in the above named regions that the cultivation of dates flourished and expanded.

In the regions of North Africa and the Middle East, the date palm and its fruit have taken an essential role in social, cultural and religious aspects of society and often played a crucial role in sustaining historic population centers. This is evident from archeological evidence from the ancient Egyptians through to present-day Arabic and Islamic societies. Historically, the date palm was not only revered for the fruits it bore, but also for the ability to produce beverages from the sap of the tree.

Although evidence suggests that the date was first brought to the shores of Europe by Phoenician traders, it was not till later times that Arabs spread the date palm around northern Africa and into Spain, effectively introducing them on the European continent. In 1765, the Spaniards introduced the fruit to California and began cultivation of the fruit in the Americas. Although the date palm and the cultivation of its fruit have been introduced into various regions of the world, the majority of production still takes place in the Middle East and North Africa.

Nutritional Information

• Dates are an excellent source of Vitamin C and fiber. They also supply Vitamin A, Vitamin B, different minerals and various amino acids.
• The nutritional composition of dates enables us to digest and take in carbohydrates more easily and can assist in controlling fatty acids and blood sugar levels in our bodies.
• The antioxidants present in dates can also aid in lowering the risk of cancer and cardiovascular conditions, while ensuring a healthy immune system.
• A single date contains only around 20 calories and is a superb source of energy.

Traditional Medical Use of the Date

Historically, the date has been used as a medical component in infusions, syrups, pastes and decoctions. These have been used to treat colds, bronchial difficulties, sore throats and even as a means of controlling fever.
The high tannin content of the date has also resulted in it being used medicinally as a cleansing agent and an astringent for intestinal troubles. The seeds and roots of the date palm tree have also been used in various forms of traditional medicine.

Storing and Handling Dates

• Dates purchased in the final stage of ripening, or the tamar stage, can be stored at room temperature for a relatively long time (5 – 10 months).
• Although storing them in the fridge is possible, and even recommended for some types of palm dates, extended exposure will eventually result in the fruit being more rigid and therefore less succulent.
• It is also possible to freeze dates, which greatly extends storage life and in some cases might even aid the ripening process