ABSTRACT

Ethnoentomology is defined as a science that deals with all forms of insect-human interactions in traditional society. The roles of insects as food, medicine, adornment, entertainment, pests and importance in myth and folklore are the main topics of ethnoentomology. The aim of this project is to examine and document the ethnoentomlogical practices (medicinal, nutritional, commercial and religious/cultural) of locals in some communities in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. The survey was conducted between August and September, 2019 using semistructured questionnaires to elicit information. Visits were made to 10 villages in the area to interview traders, farmers and locals on their knowledge of insects and the ethnoentomological information of the area. Of the 150 respondents 98.67% reported the use of insects as food, 25.33% reported the therapeutic use of insects and 77.33% reported the cultural and religious significance of insects and 19.33% reported insect use as either bait, feed for poultry and animals and as contraceptives Four different species of edible insects were found to be consumed in Orhionmwon Local Government area. Two of the four species belonged to the Order Orthoptera, one Blattodea and the other Coleoptera. Eleven species of insects were reported to have therapeutic properties. Insects are used to treat ailments such as common cough, tuberculosis, stomach pain, eye infection and convulsion in children. Insects were also used to stop bed wetting and menstrual flow in pregnant women and treat vaginal infections. Insects have roles in myth and taboo, significance in dreams, proverbs/idioms and poems. Insects are also used to make charms and potions, and used in rituals, appeals, incantations and special prayers. More studies should be carried out to fully understand indigenous use of insects which will help create a steady provision of the benefits provided by insects.