Earthworm
Synopsis of Earthworm
History
Earthworms have a remarkable history in traditional medicine, particularly across Asia, where they have been revered for centuries for their therapeutic properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), earthworm—known as Di Long—has been utilized since ancient times. Healers prescribed earthworm extracts to treat a variety of ailments, most notably for their ability to clear heat, resolve spasms, and promote healthy circulation. Earthworms were frequently incorporated into remedies for high fevers, convulsions, joint pain, and hypertension, as their bioactive enzymes and proteins were believed to reduce inflammation and enhance blood flow.
In addition to their standalone benefits, earthworms have played a pivotal role in herbal combinations. They are often blended with botanicals such as peony root, licorice, or cinnamon twig to amplify their effects, support nerve health, and balance bodily functions. Modern research has begun to validate many of these traditional claims, highlighting the fibrinolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of earthworm-derived compounds like lumbrokinase. These properties make earthworm an important ingredient in nutritional products aimed at supporting cardiovascular and neurological health.
Overall, earthworm’s longstanding medicinal use and its integration with other herbs underscore its value as a natural remedy. Its continued inclusion in both traditional and modern health products demonstrates its positive contributions to holistic wellness and the enduring wisdom of herbal medicine.
Traditional and scientific validation
Earthworms have a longstanding history in traditional medicine, particularly within Asian cultures such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where they are commonly known as "Di Long." They have been used for centuries as remedies for conditions like fever, asthma, hypertension, and joint pain. The nutritional value of earthworms lies in their high protein content, as well as essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. In modern times, earthworm powder and extracts are increasingly incorporated into nutritional supplements and functional foods due to these properties.
Scientific investigations have revealed that earthworm-derived substances, such as lumbrokinase (an enzyme extracted from earthworms), possess fibrinolytic activity, potentially supporting cardiovascular health by aiding blood flow and reducing clot formation. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects of earthworm extracts. For instance, some small clinical studies in China have suggested that lumbrokinase may help in managing certain cardiovascular conditions, though the evidence is not yet robust or widely confirmed.
Despite promising results from laboratory and preliminary clinical studies, comprehensive large-scale human trials are still limited. Therefore, while the traditional use and emerging research highlight the potential of earthworm-based products in nutrition and health, more rigorous scientific validation is warranted. Nevertheless, earthworm ingredients remain a promising area in nutritional science, contributing valuable proteins and bioactive compounds, and ongoing research continues to explore their beneficial roles for human health.
Earthworm is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Blood Clots (prevention of) (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Colic (adults) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Dizziness (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Epilepsy (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Earthworm is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
