Abstract
The major purpose of this study was to analyse proximate and phytochemical composition of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) oil. The study adopted experimental research design. Dehydrated tiger nut was purchased from Nigerian market and processed into oil using fermentation method. The oil was subjected to proximate and phytochmical analysis using standard methods. Result obtained showed that the crude protein (0.40%), ash (0.00%), crude fibre (0.00%), fat (98.94%), moisture content (0.49%), carbohydrate (0.47%) and metabolizable energy (8114.01kca./kg). These proximate compositions show that tiger nut oil is high in metabolizable energy. Phytochemical analysis showed that tiger nut oil is rich in bio-active components; tannin (20.00mg/100g), phytate (24.19mg/100g), flavonoids (9.22mg/100g), glycoside (7.81mg/100g) and alkaloids (18.68mg/100g). These results confirmed the fact that tiger nut oil can be utilized medicinally and therapeutically for improving health of Nigerians. Recommendations include among others that the state and federal government in Nigeria should synergize to establish tiger nut research institute who will work out modalities on how tiger nut can be cultivated in large quantities processed into various useful and healthful products