Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut): An insight into its bioactive compounds, biological activities, nutritional and health benefits

Physiologically important qualities and nutritional benefits prove the value of tiger nut. Phytochemicals like flavonoids, alkaloids, fat, fatty acids and etcetera that are abundant throughout the plant aid in a number of metabolic processes as well as elicit therapeutic and biological effects of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-cardiovascular disease, aphrodisiac, anti-diabetic effects thus improving general wellbeing and health conditions. More to that, in various other industries than the medical (Pharmaceutical, agricultural, food and e.t.c), tiger nuts are utilizable in making starch, animal feed, beverages, biofuel to mention but a few. Considering all these enormous benefits and applications of tiger nut, it is the intention of this review, to add to the scope of available information regarding them stating with specificity their bioactive compounds, biological activities, nutritional and health benefits as well as their industrial applications.