Palms are important plants for West African communities, both at the ecological and socio-economical point of view. Several studies conducted on this family have identified 28 native species in West Africa. Among these species, 6 are exploited for their sap or palm wine: Borassus akeassii, Borassus aethiopum, Elaeis guinensis, Phoenix reclinata, Raphia hookeri, and Raphia sudanica. There are many palm wine tapping methods, which can be categorized in two: sustainable and unsustainable methods. Another beverage from palms discovered in West Africa is the porridge made from the pulp of the fruits of Borassus aethiopum. All these beverages (palm wine and porridge) play important socio-cultural and economic roles in several communities. Indeed, palm wine is used as a drink but also for medicine and rituals. Studies conducted on the chemical contents showed that these beverages have nutritional value. Indeed, nutrients such as vitamin C, K, P, Mg, and different sugars were identified. The choice of species for palm wine tapping is guided by several factors: availability, taste, season, and quantity of the wine produced. Therefore, Phoenix reclinata is less and less exploited. Also, in the presence of Elaeis guineensis, some communities prefer to abandon the exploitation of Borassus spp., which requires climbing. This operation is dangerous because of the risk of falling.