WHAT’S IN A WITCHETTY GRUB?
These blubbery squirmers might not be your first point of call in a crisis, but witchetty grubs are packed with nutrition and healing powers. These insects, in their larval stages before turning into moths, are selected as snacks due to their protein-rich contents, healthy fats and vitamin C. They have been a staple of indigenous Australian communities for many years, and are still a popular and important food source today. They can be eaten raw or cooked, providing a quick and easy nutritious meal. The soft parts can are eaten, while the hard head is pulled off.
Aside from being bush tucker, the crawling creatures can be crushed into a paste and used to heal wounds and burns. The properties of the fatty paste mean that it acts as a clean barrier to prevent infection, while the moistness stops the wound from drying out. Witchetty grubs use these healing powers themselves, as when they are cut open, they can rapidly restore their own skin.