The earthworms are the dried bodies of the larvae of the ant lion, an insect of the ant lion family. Due to the scarcity of earthworms and the difficulty in artificial cultivation, they are highly valued and therefore expensive. In traditional Chinese medicine, earthworms are commonly used to treat malaria and carbuncles. Let's now learn about the efficacy, effects, and farming methods of earthworms.
Image of earthworms
【Efficacy and Effects of Earthworms】
Earthworms, scientifically known as "ant lions," are mainly valued for their medicinal properties. They can be used to treat conditions such as hypertension, urinary calculi, gallstones, osteomyelitis, vasculitis, otitis media, and more.
The medicinal value of earthworms is high, and therefore, they are expensive. Live earthworms can be sold for over 4000 RMB per kilogram.
Dried earthworms can be ground into powder and applied to the affected area to treat wounds. In folk medicine, this type of insect is usually ground into powder and used to treat tinnitus or otitis media.
Earthworms have a pungent and salty taste, warm nature, and are toxic. They have diuretic and detoxifying effects and are used to treat urolithiasis, malaria, carbuncles, and scrofula.
Treatment for malaria: Take eleven earthworms, mix with wine, and swallow. Take one dose half an hour before the onset of malaria. For chronic malaria, take for one week.
【Farming Methods of Earthworms】
Currently, the number of these insects is very low, and they are almost impossible to cultivate artificially, making them highly valuable.
Earthworms prefer sandy areas and are commonly found in sandy soil at the foot of cliffs.
Earthworms can be caught throughout the year, mainly in summer and autumn when ant lions are active. After catching them, lightly fry them over low heat until their bodies expand.
Earthworms have a light body and a delicate texture. They have a slight fishy smell and a slightly salty taste. The best quality earthworms are large, intact, yellowish-brown, light, and expanded, without any sand or mud.
The adult ant lions live in grassy areas and are most active during dusk. The larvae live in dry sandy soil, constructing funnel-shaped burrows and waiting at the bottom to capture small insects. They are distributed in South China, Taiwan, Sichuan, and other regions.
