Capítulo de livro

Bioactive Compounds and Biological Activities of Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus L.)

2023; Springer International Publishing; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1007/978-3-031-29006-0_34-1

ISSN

2511-8358

Autores

Great Iruoghene Edo, Princess Oghenekeno Samuel, Susan Chinedu Nwachukwu,

Tópico(s)

Botanical Research and Chemistry

Resumo

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.), also known as earth almond or chufa, is a lesser known but highly nutritious plant that has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its potential health benefits. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of tiger nuts, covering their botany, historical uses, nutritional composition, potential health benefits, and traditional medicinal uses. Tiger nuts have a long history of human consumption with evidence of their cultivation dating back to ancient Egypt. It has been used as a food source, a medicinal plant, and even as a component in cosmetic products in various cultures around the world. The nutritional composition of tiger nut is impressive, with high level of dietary fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This study comprehensively discusses the nutritional profile of tiger nuts, providing a detailed understanding of their nutrient content. Furthermore, the potential health benefits of tiger nuts are thoroughly reviewed including their effects on digestive health, cardiovascular health, blood sugar control, immune function, and other potential therapeutic uses. The traditional medicinal uses of tiger nut in different cultures and the scientific evidence supporting these traditional claims are also highlighted. The safety and potential side effects of tiger nut consumption along with recommendations for further research and potential practical applications of tiger nut in functional foods and nutraceuticals are also discussed. By synthesizing the existing scientific literature, this study contributes to a better understanding of tiger nuts and their potential applications in functional foods and medicine. Further research in this area is warranted to fully unlock the potential of this intriguing plant and to validate its traditional uses through scientific investigation.

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