Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of the Mediterranean Dwarf Palm (Chamaerops Humilis L.)

The Mediterranean dwarf palm (Chamaerops humilis) has traditional medicinal uses in North Africa for diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases, while in Mediterranean Europe, it is used for ornaments, nutrition, and crafts. Its rich chemical composition includes steroids, flavonoids, volatile oils, triterpenoids, fatty acids, and vitamins. The review highlights its pharmacological properties against pulmonary, urinary infections, diabetes, gastric problems, kidneys, skin, and hair loss, as well as ethno-veterinary uses. Despite its long history of use, there is a lack of comprehensive ethnobotanical and pharmacological studies, and further research is needed, especially for potential cancer treatments and conservation efforts.