AJCS 18(07):416-424 (2024) ISSN:1835-2707
https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.24.18.07.p4074
Harnessing the potential of tiger nut (
Cyperus esculentus
L.) for food
and nutritional security, good health, and economic development of
Ghana or Africa. A review
Samuel Novor* and Esther Fobi Donkor
Department of Horticulture and Crop Production, School of Agriculture
and Technology, University of Energy and Natural Resources, P.O. Box
214, Sunyani, Bono Region, Ghana
Abstract: Tiger nuts (
Cyperus esculentus
L.) offer
significant benefits for food security, health, and
economic growth, particularly in Ghana and Africa. As a
nutritious food source, they are rich in dietary fiber,
vitamins, and minerals such as iron, potassium, and
magnesium. Additionally, they contain healthy
unsaturated fats and phytochemicals like flavonoids,
phenolic acids, and tannins, which combat
inflammation, cancer, and act as antioxidants. Beyond
their health benefits, tiger nuts have economic
potential. They can be processed into value-added
products like milk, flour, oil, and snacks. These
products find markets both locally and internationally,
Submitted:
29/09/2023
Revised:
22/11/2023
Accepted:
07/02/2024
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aiding the economies of tiger nut-producing countries.
They offer an alternative sweetener and dairy substitute,
beneficial for those with lactose intolerance. Tiger nuts
also contribute to agricultural sustainability. Their
ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen improves soil fertility
and crop productivity, benefiting small-scale farmers in
developing countries. This can help reduce poverty and
enhance food security. Despite these advantages,
further research and investment are necessary to fully
understand their health impacts and optimize
cultivation and processing methods. Such efforts can
promote tiger nut production and consumption,
particularly in poorer nations, leading to sustainable
development and improved livelihoods for farmers and
communities. This review aims to highlight how tiger
nuts (
Cyperus esculentus
L.) can enhance food security,
health, and economic growth in Ghana and Africa. Tiger
nuts are a valuable food source with untapped potential.
This review examines the nutrition, health benefits, and
economic impact of tiger nuts, especially for small-scale
farmers and food availability. This paper underscores
the importance of further research and investment in
promoting tiger nuts as a valuable resource for Ghana,
Africa, and the world.
Keywords: Crop productivity, Economic development; Food security;
Health benefits; Nutritional value; Sustainable agriculture.
Introduction
Tiger nuts (
Cyperus esculentus
L.) are gaining increasing attention due
to their high nutritional value and health benefits (Adjei-Duodu, 2015).
They are rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids,
making them a valuable source of nourishment (Donkor et al., 2021;
Gupta et al., 2020).
Tiger nuts offer several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and
antioxidant properties. (Garca-Seco et al., 2020) These health benefits
include; improving cardiovascular health (Oyedemi et al., 2017),
supporting digestive health (Marín-García et al., 2020), and aiding in
diabetes management (Adeyemi et al., 2019). Consuming tiger nut
tubers can be beneficial in preventing and treating various conditions
such as colon cancer (Adejuyitan et al., 2009), coronary heart disease,
and arteriosclerosis (Chukwuma et al., 2010), obesity, and
gastrointestinal disorders (Anderson et al., 2009), flatulence, diarrhea,
dysentery, and excessive thirst (Adejuyitan, 2011).
Tiger nuts are commonly consumed as a snack or used to make a milk-
like drink in Ghana and other African countries (Fernández-López et al.,
2018). They also have various applications in the food industry, such as
gluten-free products, bread, and energy bars (Garca-Seco et al., 2020).
The growing demand for tiger nuts can result in expanded cultivation,
risking deforestation and habitat loss if not sustainably managed.
African nations must prioritize eco-friendly farming practices to protect
natural ecosystems while promoting tiger nut cultivation (Duruigbo et
al., 2013).
Water management is a critical issue in tiger nut farming. These plants
require consistent moisture but excessive irrigation in water-scarce
areas can strain resources. Therefore, sustainable water management is
essential in tiger nut farming (Mohdaly, 2019; Pramanik & Pramanik,
2016).
Tiger nut plants can thrive in low fertile soils and challenging
environmental conditions (Timon et al., 2019). Research should focus on
improving cultivation techniques, increasing yields, and enhancing
resistance to pests and diseases to support food security and economic
growth (Msaki-Mark et al., 2015).
To unlock the full potential of tiger nuts, research on cultivation and
genetic enhancement is vital. Genetic studies can lead to new varieties
with improved yield, disease resistance, and nutritional value (Donkor et
al., 2019). Collaboration among agricultural institutions, universities,
and the private sector can expedite the development of tailored
cultivars.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of tiger nut research,
focusing on its nutritional value, health benefits, and economic
potential. It highlights the importance of tiger nuts in sustainable
agriculture and food systems in Africa, with a particular emphasis on
Ghana. The aim is to show how tiger nuts can play a significant role in
improving food security, health, and economic development in these
regions. While some information may have broader relevance, the
primary focus is on how tiger nuts can benefit Africa.
The review primarily discusses the advantages and prospects of tiger
nuts (Cyperus esculentus L.) within the context of Ghana and Africa.
Although some insights may apply globally, the main emphasis is on
how tiger nuts can contribute to enhancing food security, health, and
economic development specifically in these regions. The article
underscores the potential of tiger nuts as a valuable resource for Ghana
and Africa and calls for more research and investment to fully harness
their benefits in this specific geographical context.
Nutritional Value of Tiger Nuts
Tiger nuts are a nutritious food rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber,
making them great for digestive health. Their high fiber content is linked
to reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular
issues, and cancer (Abugoch-James et al., 2020). Tiger nuts also provide
a good amount of carbohydrates, which are a source of energy. These
carbs mainly consist of dietary fiber, starch, and some sugars (Donkor et
al., 2021, Akintoye et al., 2019).
Tiger nuts are also packed with beneficial unsaturated fatty acids like
oleic and linoleic acid. These fats can help lower the risk of heart disease
and have a positive impact on cholesterol levels (Akintoye et al., 2019).
Additionally, tiger nuts are a rich source of essential minerals such as
calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus (Donkor et al., 2021).
These minerals play vital roles in maintaining strong bones, and teeth,
and regulating blood pressure and muscle function (Abugoch-James et
al., 2020).
Moreover, tiger nuts contain a variety of phytochemicals like flavonoids,
phenolics, and tannins, known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer,
and antioxidant properties (Garca-Sánchez et al., 2020). Overall, tiger
nuts are a valuable food source, especially for those with limited access
to other nutritious options due to their rich nutrients and bioactive
compounds.
Health Benefits of Tiger Nuts
Tiger nuts have garnered attention in research for their potential health
benefits. They are seen as a promising dietary option for people with
diabetes, as they may have a positive impact on blood sugar levels
(Lusas et al., 2017). Studies also suggest that tiger nuts could help lower
cholesterol levels, improve blood pressure, and contribute to overall
heart health (Garca-Sánchez et al., 2020).
Furthermore, various studies have supported the idea that tiger nuts
offer several health advantages, such as reducing the risk of
cardiovascular diseases, enhancing digestion, and bolstering the
immune system (Kapewangolo et al., 2021; Yahya et al., 2021). Despite
their potential, tiger nuts remain underutilized in many parts of Africa,
including Ghana. To fully unlock the potential of tiger nuts as a food
source and improve food and nutritional security in the region,
additional research and funding are needed to support their production,
processing, and commercialization (Nwachukwu et al., 2018).
The use of tiger nuts directly affects;
Cardiovascular health: Oyedemi et al. (2017) reported that tiger nuts can
be good for your heart. Researchers found that tiger nuts lowered blood
pressure and improved the fats in the blood of rats. Another study by
Akintunde et al. (2020) showed that tiger nuts reduced cholesterol and
triglyceride levels in rats, which could lower the risk of heart disease.
Based on these findings, tiger nuts could be beneficial for heart health in
people.
Digestive health: Tiger nuts are packed with dietary fiber, which is
essential for a healthy digestive system. Selma-Royo et al. (2022)
suggested that including tiger nuts in your diet can lead to improved
bowel movements and increased fecal weight in healthy individuals,
while also reducing discomfort for those with functional constipation
(Marín-García et al., 2020).
Historically, tiger nuts have been used to address various digestive
issues like indigestion, diarrhea, dysentery, and constipation (Bajaj et al.,
2019). Good digestive health is crucial for overall well-being, as it
ensures proper food absorption and waste elimination (Gibson et al.,
2010; Ayerza, 2009). Digestive problems such as irritable bowel
syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and constipation can
result from poor digestive health (Okullo et al., 2019).
A diet rich in fiber has been linked to improved digestive health and a
reduced risk of digestive issues (Okullo et al., 2019; Tiwari et al., 2015).
Tiger nuts are abundant in dietary fiber (Rebezov et al., 2023), and this
fiber undergoes fermentation in the colon, producing beneficial short-
chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that promote gut health and are associated with
a lower risk of conditions like colon cancer, obesity, and diabetes (Tiwari
et al., 2015).
Tiger nuts also contain prebiotics, which are non-digestible
carbohydrates that support the growth and activity of beneficial gut
bacteria (Sánchez-Zapata et al., 2013). By fostering healthy gut bacteria
and inhibiting harmful bacteria, prebiotics contribute to digestive health
(Gibson et al., 2010). Tiger nuts are a great choice for promoting a
healthy gut microbiome due to their high fiber and prebiotic content
(Bajaj et al., 2019; Tiwari et al., 2015). Maintaining a balanced gut
microbiota is crucial for immune health, nutrient absorption, and overall
digestive well-being (Salazar et al., 2017).
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties: Tiger nuts contain
natural compounds like flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have
anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (Roselló-Soto et al., 2019).
They can help reduce inflammation in the body's immune cells and
protect against oxidative stress (Megías et al., 2019; Hernández et al.,
2020).
These nuts have a long history as a traditional food in various cultures,
and research suggests they can be beneficial for overall health
(Ganatsios et al., 2021). They have been shown to have anti-
inflammatory effects, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Studies on rats even found that tiger nut extracts significantly reduced
inflammation (Ayerza and Coates, 2007). The bioactive compounds in
tiger nuts, such as phenolic acids and flavonoids, exhibit anti-
inflammatory properties by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory
molecules (Tiwari et al., 2015).
Additionally, tiger nuts are a good source of antioxidants, including
flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can combat oxidative stress and
lower the risk of chronic diseases (Tiwari et al., 2015). In vitro studies
have confirmed the antioxidant properties of tiger nut extract (Adepoju
et al., 2015).
Persistent inflammation is associated with the development of various
chronic conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
(Ma et al., 2021). Tiger nuts' anti-inflammatory qualities may help
mitigate the risk of these diseases (Ayerza and Coates, 2007). The
bioactive compounds in tiger nuts, such as flavonoids and phenolic
acids, can reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-
inflammatory cytokines (Tiwari et al., 2015).
Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between the production of
reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to neutralize them,
can lead to cell and tissue damage, contributing to chronic disorders
(Hammad et al., 2018). Tiger nuts, rich in antioxidants like phenolic
acids and flavonoids, can help counteract free radicals and reduce
oxidative stress (Tiwari et al., 2015). In vitro studies have shown that
tiger nut extract can significantly reduce free radicals (Adepoju et al.,
2015).
Inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is
characterized by chronic gastrointestinal inflammation and an imbalance
in gut microbiota (Becker et al., 2015). Research suggests that a diet
high in fiber and prebiotics can help manage Inflammatory bowel
disease by reducing inflammation and restoring gut microbiota balance
(Bajaj et al., 2019). Tiger nuts, with their high fiber and prebiotic
content, can be a beneficial part of a diet for individuals with
Inflammatory bowel disease (Fiagbor, 2017).
Diabetes management: Several studies have reported that tiger nuts may
have potential benefits for managing diabetes. Research has shown that
tiger nut extracts can lower blood glucose levels in diabetic rats