Termites are eusocial insects that are classified at the taxonomic rank of infraorder Isoptera, or as epifamily Termitoidae within the cockroach order Blattodea. Termites were once classified in a separate order from cockroaches, but recent phylogenetic studies indicate that they evolved from close ancestors of cockroaches during the Jurassic or Triassic.
In Nigeria , termites are usually roasted and eaten as food , mostly during the rainy season The flying termites are usually collected while flying or after their wings have fallen off. During collection, these termites are added in bucket or bowl of water after which they are properly cleaned.
Recent studies suggest that , in addition to their ecological importance , termites are a source of medicinal and food resources to various human populations in various locations of the world , showing their potential for being used as an alternative protein source in human or livestock diets , as well as a source for new medicines. Macrotermes bellicosus are known to the Ibos as Aku ; to the Hausa as Khiyea ; Esusun in Yoruba ; and Ebu in Annang .
MINERAL COMPOSITION OF TERMITE
Research shows that crude protein content of the soldiers was higher than those of workers and Queen. The highest mineral element was sodium in queen , while the least mineral was manganese in the soldiers. The termites were rich in vitamins A and C. Workers termites had the highest vitamin C content, while Queen had the highest vitamin A content. Anti- nutrient compositions in Macrotermes bellicosus were considerably low .
Also, a recent review has shown that termites are commonly used insects in traditional popular medicine. They are used in the treatment of various diseases that affect humans, such as influenza, asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, sinusitis, tonsillitis and hoarsenes.
Breathtaking Benefits of Termites
(1)Medicinal Purposes
The use of termites for medicinal purposes is common especially in the rural parts of the world Africa is the continent with the highest number of usage, followed by America and Asia respectively. The results show that termites are useful for medicinal and food purposes to humanity.
(2)Ecosystem Support
Termites are detritivores because they feed on dead organic materials. They support the ecosystem by recycling waste matters such as faeces, dead animals, dead wood, plants and cellulose etc. Termites break down complex molecules that plants could not use by feeding, decomposing and defecating into the soil. This equally helps to recycle and increase the soil nutrient contents. Termites also help to aerate the soil while building their mounds that contain a high amount of phosphorous and nitrogen to support plant growth.
(3)**Treatment of Gastric Disorders **
Some countries use termites for treating gastric disorders. Kaolin, which is a medicinal clay substance found in mounds is used in folk medicine for treating gastric disorders.
(4)**Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases **
Termite mounds are used in preparing herbal medicines for treating gastrointestinal diseases due to the kaolin clay substance found in it. It can be used for treating cholera, dysentery, swelling of large intestine, indigestion, stomach ache and diarrhoea
(5)Essential for Pregnant Women
Termite mounds are used for preparing herbal concoctions applied on the stomach of pregnant women. Studies reveal that the mounds contain a high amount of calcium and iron that are helpful for pregnant women.
(6)Livestock Feeds
Termites are not only a source of food to man but also to animals, birds etc.
SIDE EFFECT OF TERMITE
Always be careful with termites as they can sting and bite, however, they do not release toxic substances to the wounds. Studies reveal that termites do not transmit harmful diseases to humans, howbeit, individuals living in termites infested vicinities may experience some allergic reactions including asthma attacks. Most people are also allergic to termite dung and saliva and as a result, such people should refrain from having close contacts with termites.