Regarding the medicinal value of ants, there are some records in traditional medicine and modern research, but the health benefits and risks of eating ants raw need to be viewed scientifically and objectively. The following is relevant information and precautions： --- ###**1. Ant application in traditional medicine** In traditional medicine in some parts of China, certain ants (such as the quasi-black prickly ants) are used as medicinal materials, usually soaked in wine, dried and ground into powder or decocted for use, rather than eaten directly raw. Traditionally, it is believed that it may have the following effects： 1. **Supplementary nutrition**: Ants are rich in protein, amino acids, zinc, iron and other trace elements. 2. **Anti-inflammatory effect**: May relieve inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis. 3. **Enhance immunity**: Some studies have mentioned that the active ingredients (such as antibacterial peptides) contained in it may regulate immunity. --- ###**2. The potential risks of eating ants raw** Although there are cases of ants being used as medicine in traditional medicine, there are significant risks of eating ants raw.**： 1. **Hygiene issues** Ants may carry parasites, bacteria, or pesticides left in the environment, and eating raw may cause digestive tract infections or poisoning. 2. **Allergic reactions** Insect protein may cause allergies, ranging from skin rashes and diarrhea to anaphylactic shock. 3. **Toxicity risk** Some ant species (such as fire ants and red ants) are inherently toxic. Their secretion of formic acid may irritate the oral cavity and digestive tract, causing vomiting, abdominal pain and even organ damage. 4. **Lack of scientific evidence** Modern medicine has limited research on the benefits of eating ants, and most of the “efficacy” lacks rigorous clinical trial support. --- ###**3. Suggestions and alternatives** 1. **Choose the type carefully** Only a very small number of ants (such as the quasi-black spiny ants) are used for traditional medicinal purposes and need to be strictly treated. Do not eat wild ants at will. 2. **Priority is given to processed products** If you try ant medicine, it is recommended to choose ant powder, capsules or medicinal wine produced by regular pharmaceutical companies, which have been sterilized and tested for safety. 3. **Consult a professional** Consult a Chinese medicine practitioner or nutritionist before use to avoid interaction with drugs or other foods. 4. **Compliance with regulations** Some regions have strict regulations on the consumption of insects, and they need to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. --- ###**Summary** Although ants have certain applications in traditional medicine, the risks of eating raw far outweigh the potential benefits. Modern medicine recommends the extraction of active ingredients by safe processing. For health problems, priority should be given to following scientific medical advice, rather than blindly trying folk remedies.