Although there are indeed examples of the use of ants as medicine in some cultural traditions, eating ants raw has certain health risks and needs to be treated with caution. The following is a summary of relevant information： ### Possible benefits (need to be scientifically verified) 1. **Application of traditional medicine** For example, in some parts of Asia and South America, specific ants (such as black spiny ants) are soaked in wine or dried and used as medicine. They are considered to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or immune-enhancing effects, but these effects are mostly based on folk experience and clinical research is limited. 2. **Nutrients** Ants are rich in protein, chitin (which may support intestinal health) and a small amount of trace elements, but they have no significant advantages over other common foods (such as meat and seafood). ### Main risks 1. **Pathogen infection** Raw ants may carry parasites, bacteria (such as salmonella) or viruses, causing digestive tract infections. 2. **Allergic reactions** The protein of crustaceans and insects may cause allergies, and symptoms include skin rashes, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylactic shock. 3. **Toxin risk** Some ant species (such as fire ants) contain venom, and accidental ingestion may cause swelling of the mouth, vomiting or more serious poisoning reactions. 4. **Digestive problems** The chitin of the ant exoskeleton is difficult to digest and may cause bloating or intestinal discomfort. ### Expert advice -**Avoid raw food**: If you try medicinal use, you should choose a legal product that has been sterilized (such as dry powder or extract). -**Consult a professional**: Chinese medicine or nutritionists can provide safe dosage and compatibility recommendations. -**Give priority to alternatives**: If you pursue similar nutrients, fish, eggs, probiotics, etc. are safer choices. In short, don't blindly imitate folk remedies. The efficacy of medicinal ants has not been fully confirmed by modern medicine, and the risks are clear. If you have specific health needs, it is recommended to give priority to evidence-based treatment options.