What you need to know about tiger nut

Tiger nuts and it's health benefits


The tiger nut is scientifically known as Cyperus Esculentus. It is a monocotyledonous plant & belongs to the cyperaceae family of plants which is made up of over 4000 species.



The tiger nut can be found in various parts of the world such as the European hemisphere, Africa & the Middle East. It can be found in countries such as The United States of America, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico, Brazil, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, Cameroon, Mali, etc.

The tiger nut is cultivated for it's edible tubers also called earth almonds, as a snack and for the preparation of 'horchata de chufa' (a sweet milk-like beverage).

In most of the countries mentioned above, the tiger nut is primarily used in the production of animal feeds or side dish but in Hispanic countries it is primarily used for the preparation of 'horchata de chufa'.

Tiger nut can be consumed raw, dried, baked, roasted or as tiger nut milk or oil.



In Northern Nigeria it is called 'Aya' & is usually eaten raw likewise in many other parts of the country.



The tiger nut is rich in nutrients such as protein, fats, calories, fibre, carbs, vitamin E, vitamin C, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium & zinc. They are also a rich source of antioxidants which are beneficial compounds that protects your body against ageing & diseases like cancer & heart diseases.

Germinating or roasting the tubers prior to eating reduces their antinutrient levels, making it easier for your body to absorb and use the many nutrients they contain.



Tiger nuts helps to improve digestion, reduction in blood sugar levels, improves heart health, boosts your immune system to help fight infections & it also serves as an aphrodisiac (substances that increases s3xual desire & performance).



Although not technically a nut, tiger nuts are an interesting addition to a healthy diet.

They’re rich in many nutrients, contribute to a good digestion and may protect against infections and health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.