Date
Date, Dattel, Datte, Dátil, Phoenix dactylifera, Khajura (खजूर)
Dates, the fruit of the date palm, are a staple in Middle Eastern and Ayurvedic nutrition. Their high natural sugar content provides quick energy, while their rich mineral profile, including potassium, magnesium, and iron, supports tissue building and vitality. In Ayurveda, dates are known for their cooling and nourishing qualities and are used to balance excessive heat and dryness in the body. They help build Ojas and are often recommended during convalescence, for debility, and for reproductive health. Soaked dates are particularly suitable for balancing Vata and Pitta.
Dates are excellent for grounding and nourishing Vata. Soaked overnight, they are especially soothing to the nervous system and help combat dryness and weakness.
Their cooling and sweet nature makes dates beneficial for Pitta, reducing internal heat and supporting calmness and tissue strength.
Due to their heavy and sweet qualities, dates can increase Kapha if consumed in excess. Dry dates in moderation are preferable.
Akasha ֍ / Vayu ֍ / Tejas ֍ / Jala ֍֍ / Prithvi ֍֍֍
Rasa
sweet (madhura)
heavy (guru), oily (snigdha)
Guna
Vipaka
sweet (madhura)
Virja
cooling (shita)
Dhatu
Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Shukra
Convalescence, low energy, dry constipation, debility, reproductive weakness, low libido, Pitta imbalance, Vata derangement
Avoid excess in Kapha conditions like mucus buildup, obesity, or diabetes. Not suitable in unsoaked form for weak digestion.
Best consumed soaked overnight. Can be blended into warm milk with cardamom or used in sweet Ayurvedic tonics and desserts.
