Abstract

Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) is well known for its innumerable health benefits and nutritional values. However, utilization of leaves as a source of element supplement has not been yet explored. Thus, the present study was aimed to employ inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) for the determination of macro and micro nutrients present in the leaves of three varieties (Rothana, Barhee and Sukri) of P. dactylifera. The results revealed that the date palm leaves, depending upon the variety contain significant but quite variable amounts of macro as well as micro elements. Varieties Barhee, Sukri and Rothana had calcium in abundance while var. Sukri and Barhee also had significantly high level of potassium (K). Positive correlation was observed between sodium (Na) and K (r = 0.868), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) (r = 0.945) in var. Barhee, Sukri and Rothana. Thus, it may be concluded that date palm leaves of three varieties of P. dactylifera have the potential to provide significant level of essential nutrients to human beings and thus, can cure various diseases.

Key words: Phoenix dactylifera, mineral analysis, macronutrients, micronutrients