Ecdysteroids

Insect moulting hormones (ecdysone and its homologues) are generally called ecdysteroids. Ecdysteroids act as moulting hormones of arthropods but also occur in other invertebrates where they can play different role. Ecdysteroids also appear in many plants mostly as a protection agents (toxins or antifeedants) against herbivore insects.These phytoecdysteroids have medicinal value and are part of herbal adaptogenic remedies like cordyceps.