Termites, though small, are proving to be a powerful source of both nutrition and medicine, especially in places like Nigeria where they are commonly eaten. One of the key health benefits of consuming termites is their high protein content, which makes them a valuable food option, particularly during the rainy season when they are most available.
In Nigeria, roasted termites are widely enjoyed, and they go by different names across ethnic groups—Aku (Ibo), Khiyea (Hausa), Esusun (Yoruba), and Ebu (Annang). But beyond being a seasonal delicacy, could termites also hold the key to treating health conditions like asthma, sinusitis, hoarseness, wounds, and even malnutrition?
Recent research says yes. Studies are now highlighting termites not only as an environmentally important species but also as a valuable source of food and medicine in many parts of the world. Nigerian researchers from the University of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State studied the nutritional makeup of the common termite species Macrotermes bellicosus, focusing on the different castes—queen, soldiers, and workers.
The study, published in the International Journal of Food Nutrition and Safety, found that soldier termites had the highest protein content, while the queen had the most sodium. Worker termites were richest in vitamin C, and queens had the most vitamin A. The study also found that the levels of harmful substances (anti-nutrients) in the termites were very low, making them safe for regular consumption.
This species of termite plays an important role in the diet of people in the Niger-Delta, especially among children who often eat them as snacks. Historically, insects like termites have always been a part of the African diet, dating back to early human ancestors. They’re rich in energy, fats, and essential nutrients, making them ideal for combating protein and nutrient deficiencies.
Apart from being nutritious, termites have also been used in traditional medicine. According to another study published in the Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, termites are used in treating respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, influenza, whooping cough, and tonsillitis. The therapeutic properties of termites come from natural compounds they produce—like peptides espinigerine and termicine—which have shown strong antifungal and antibacterial effects.
In short, termites are more than just a food item in Nigeria and other parts of Africa—they are a rich source of nutrition and hold promising medicinal value. Their traditional use in food and healing practices highlights their potential as a low-cost, natural remedy and nutritional supplement, especially in communities facing malnutrition and limited access to modern medicine.