Parts Most Frequently Used: Whole Dried Worm

Flavors/Temps: Salty, Cold

Caution: Considered safe.

History/Folklore: Earthworms have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayervedic Medicine, Traditional Arabic, and Islamic Medicine for many thousands of years to treat acute feverish conditions.

In China, the best earthworms are said to come from Guangdong.

Modern science confirms that the three thrombolytic enzymes contained in earthworms: fibrinolysin (plasmin), profibrinolysin activator, and collagenase are effective in dissolving thrombus and restoring blood circulation to the brain helping to ease seizures, headaches, and other related conditions involving heat in the blood .

Chinese research reveals the three enzymes can promote blood  flow, help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce blood fat.

These same three enzymes have been isolated and are used in a drug called Plasmin. It is used to reduce the risk of ishemic cardiovascular problems such as strokes, embolisms and arteriosclerosis.

Earthworm’s immune systems are rich in leukocytes and humoral products that further contribute to their benefits as a healing substance.

A technique from Burma for using earthworms is to heat them in a closed pot until they are reduced to ashes.  The ashes are then used alone or mixed with tamarind seeds.  They can also be boiled in water with salt and onions. The resulting liquid is mixed with a patients food.

Native American Indians used earthworm poultices to draw out thorns and ease the pain of rheumatisms.

In Australia and New Zealand, the Maori consider earthworms a ceremonial food that was fed to their chiefs or as the last food to the dying.

Amazonian tribes consider earthworms a delicacy, and they are prescribed for women in the first month following pregnancy to help prevent anemia.

In soils, earthworms convert organic mater into rich humus, improving soil fertility and allowing plants to thrive.

Earthworms have been used as a food in many cultures and are even considered a delicacy reserved for special guests and the elderly.

Earthworms are symbols of spring and rain as they come above ground in the rain, especially in the spring.

They are a sign of earth’s energy as they live in the ground and rejuvenate the soil with their castings. There movements through the soil allow roots space to move through the ground so they can access oxygen and other nutrients as they grow.