Indications
Dates, the fruit of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), are the main ingredient of some Unani majoons, which are sweet, semi solid herbal pastes. Date based majoons are traditionally used as a general tonic for weakness, tiredness and slow recovery after illness, for poor appetite, and as a strengthening tonic for men with low stamina or sexual weakness. Dates are a nourishing food, but scientific evidence for the medicinal uses of such tonics is limited.
How It Works
Dates provide natural sugars for quick energy, along with fibre, potassium, magnesium, iron in small amounts and antioxidant plant compounds. In Unani theory they are warming and strengthening. Majoons usually also contain nuts, spices and other herbs, which add to the traditional tonic effect. Any effect beyond nutrition has not been properly studied.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, often with milk. Do not take more than the recommended amount. Use a clean dry spoon each time.
Interactions
Dates themselves have no important drug interactions. Because the preparation is high in sugar, it may affect blood sugar control in people taking Insulin, Metformin or other diabetes medicines. Its potassium content is relevant for people on potassium sparing medicines such as Spironolactone or ACE inhibitors such as Enalapril who have kidney problems. Other herbs in the majoon may interact with medicines, so show the ingredient list to your doctor or pharmacist.
Contraindications
- Allergy to dates or any ingredient listed on the pack
- Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor advises it
- Advanced kidney disease with high potassium, unless a doctor advises it
Side Effects
Most people tolerate it well. Possible effects include bloating, wind, loose stools, weight gain with regular use, raised blood sugar and, rarely, allergic reactions. Sticky sweet pastes can contribute to tooth decay.
Get urgent medical help if you notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread rash, or symptoms of very high blood sugar such as extreme thirst, passing a lot of urine and confusion.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Dates are a safe and healthy food in pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, majoons often contain other herbs and spices, some of which may not be suitable in pregnancy, so ask a doctor or qualified practitioner before using this preparation.
Precautions and Warnings
People with diabetes should count the sugar content and check their blood sugar. Ongoing tiredness, weakness or sexual problems can have medical causes such as anaemia, thyroid disease or diabetes, so see a doctor if they continue. Rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after taking sweet pastes.
Overdose
Eating a large amount may cause stomach upset, diarrhoea and high blood sugar. If someone with diabetes has taken a large amount, check blood sugar and contact a doctor. If a child has eaten a large amount and seems unwell, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (nutritive general tonic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.