Evaluation on the Physiological Activity of Tenebrio molitor Larval Oil (TMO)

Purpose: Edible insects are increasingly recognized as sustainable resources with potential health benefits. In this study, we analyzed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Tenebrio molitor larval oil (TMO) for resource-circulating economic practice and the development of the sustainable edible insect industry based on the value of upcycling.Methods: TMO was extrcted by direct compression, and its antioxidant activity (DPPH radial sacvenging activity and ABTS radial sacvenging activity) and anti- inflammatory activity (NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 production) were evaluated.Results: We observed that both the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of TMO increased in a concentration-dependent manner. Specifically, antioxidant activity rose with increasing concentrations, while production of inflammatiry mediators (NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) was inhibied in the same pattern. The most effect was observed at the highest concentration (75 μL/mL).Conclusion: These findings suggest that the concentration of TMO is crucial for optimizing its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Future studies, including animal experiments and clinical trials, are needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness. With such validation TMO may have broad potential for application as a health-functional food, a pharmaceutical auxiliary material, and an active ingredient in anti-inflammatory cosmetics.