THERAPEUTIC USE OF INSECTS AND INSECT PRODUCTS

Abstract

Insects and their products have been used as resources of medicines all over the world since ancient times. Insect-derived compounds for therapeutic use have huge promise as they have remedial, analgesic, antibacterial, diuretic, sedative, anticancer and anti-rheumatic properties. In old traditional medicine, insect products such as honey, venom, maggots, silk and cantharidine etc. have been used as a treatment for many human ailments. Therapies based on insects are now finding increased acceptance and importance because of failure of substitute drug delivery methods to deliver many lead compounds in key therapeutic areas. There are a number of new advancements in the development of insect natural compounds as prospective new medicines. This review provides updated information regarding traditional and modern use of insects as medicines across various parts of the world.