Notes on entomophagy and entomotherapy generally and information on the situation in India in particular

Indian tribals use insects in a variety of ways. Species containing valuable protein, easily digestible fats, and considerable amounts of vitamins and minerals are consumed; others serve as raw material for folk remedies. Such uses need to be documented, because tribal communities are increasingly discarding their age-old practices. Research into this field can benefit India and the rest of the world in several ways. Traditional communities need to be shown to appreciate the value of their customs and that to look after their environment (lest many of the useful insects will disappear) is not a luxury, but a necessity. Moreover, studying food insects and therapeutically important species can lead to economic spin-offs and would allow countries like India to develop ways to sustainably use this abundant natural resource.