Medical Applications of Insects: A Global Perspective with Future Insights and Innovative Ideas

Insects are emerging as vital tools in medical science, blending sustainability with efficacy across therapeutic, diagnostic, and pharmaceutical realms. This review explores their historical and current uses, such as maggot debridement therapy (MDT) with Lucilia sericata for chronic wounds, venom-derived drugs from bees and wasps, and chitin-based biomaterials from insect exoskeletons. MDT removes necrotic tissue and fights resistant bacteria, while venom peptides like melittin offer antimicrobial and anticancer benefits. Chitin enhances drug delivery and tissue repair, showcasing insects’ diverse potential. Globally, silkworm peptides in Asia treat diabetes, African termite remedies address respiratory issues, and Western MDT and venom research thrive. Challenges like regulatory delays and public aversion persist, yet future prospects are bright. Bioengineering could scale insect compounds, venom variability might enable personalized medicine, and insect-inspired nanotechnology could advance diagnostics. Entomophagy may prevent chronic diseases through nutrition. These innovations merge tradition with technology, demanding interdisciplinary research. Ethical issues, including insect welfare and environmental sustainability, require attention. This review champions insects’ integration into global healthcare, urging rigorous study and acceptance.