A REVIEW ON CHEMICAL COMPONENTS AND THERAPEUTIC USES OF ANT LION (MYRMELON SP)

Abstract

Antlions are a family of insects given the zoological classification Myrmeleontidae. The name is rooted in the Greek words myrmex (ant) and leon (lion). Since it preys primarily on ants, the antlion is, metaphorically speaking, a "lion" among ants. The name "antlion" best describes this insect's predacious larval form—a mottled gray or brown creature with an oversized head, spiny jaws, short legs, and a soft body covered in bristles. Along with the beneficial effects of ant lion in agriculture, they have been found to be containing various bioactive components such as polypeptides and alkaloids. They have been proved to be useful as therapeutic agents in treatment of various human ailments such as diabetes, convulsion and also in back pain. This review article summarizes some chemical constituents of the insect and some pharmacological uses as reported by various studies.

Peer Review History:

Received 6 October 2017;   Revised 11 November; Accepted 30 December, Available online 15 January 2018

Academic Editor: Dr. DANIYAN Oluwatoyin Michael, Obafemi Awolowo University, ILE-IFE, Nigeria, toyinpharm@gmail.com

Received file:        Reviewer's Comments:

Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10

Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10

Reviewer(s) detail:

Dr. Lucky Llegbosi Nwidu, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, menelucky@yahoo.com

Dr. Mohamed Derbali, Faculty of Pharmacy, Monastir, Tunisia, mohamed.edderbali@gmail.com