Di Long

Earthworm (Di Long) – The Ingredient Used in Traditional Systems to Support Circulation and Calm SpasmsEarthworm (Di Long) is the traditional Chinese medicine name for the dried body of specific earthworm species, primarily Lumbricus rubellus or Pheretima aspergillum, an important zoological ingredient that has been used in traditional East Asian herbal systems for thousands of years. It is regarded as a substance with cold and salty properties, particularly suitable for formulas aimed at clearing deep internal heat, stopping spasms or convulsions, and unblocking the body's energetic and circulatory pathways.Traditional Understanding in TCM SystemsWithin traditional Chinese medicine, earthworm (Di Long) is described as a salty and cold substance. In the TCM theoretical framework, it acts primarily on the Liver, Spleen, Bladder, and Lung meridians. According to this traditional description, earthworm (Di Long) strongly extinguishes "internal Liver Wind" and clears Heat – a TCM concept that refers to intense, hyperactive energies (often triggered by extreme heat or Yang rising) that can cause tremors, seizures, and severe dizziness. Furthermore, its physical nature of burrowing through the earth translates in TCM to a powerful ability to "unblock the collaterals," meaning it removes obstructions in the body's micro-circulation.In TCM formulas, earthworm (Di Long) is seen as an ingredient that helps relax tension, soothe the nervous system, and clear congested respiratory or urinary pathways. It is traditionally used to promote smooth joint mobility, alleviate wheezing and asthma-like symptoms associated with lung heat, and stop involuntary muscle spasms.Biochemical Composition and ResearchEarthworm (Di Long) contains a variety of unique bioactive compounds, the most extensively researched being a group of proteolytic enzymes collectively known as lumbrokinase. This biochemical profile is connected in traditional applications with the support of wound healing, blood flow, and the removal of stagnation.Modern scientific research shows that earthworm extracts can offer specific benefits. Studies show that earthworm (Di Long) preparations:Possess significant fibrinolytic activity through lumbrokinase, which helps dissolve blood clots and regulate hypercoagulation, offering potential protection against ischemic cardiovascular events.Can have antispasmodic and neuroprotective actions, supporting its traditional use for seizures and helping promote the regeneration of injured nerve cells (such as Schwann cells).Can help manage high blood pressure (hypertension), which aligns with the TCM concept of subduing hyperactive Liver Yang.Provide bronchodilatory effects, helping to relax the airways and alleviate wheezing or asthma symptoms.Can offer anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits, which are useful in managing joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis.Scientists particularly investigate how lumbrokinase and other earthworm enzymes contribute to circulatory health, nerve repair, and the breakdown of bacterial biofilms.Traditional Applications – TCM ContextIn traditional TCM formulas, earthworm (Di Long) is classically used in situations described as:High fevers that result in spasms, convulsions, or seizures, particularly in children.Joint pain, numbness, or stiffness caused by "Wind-Damp-Heat" obstructing the meridians (often compared to rheumatoid arthritis).Wheezing, shortness of breath, or asthma-like respiratory issues accompanied by Lung Heat.High blood pressure presenting with severe headaches, dizziness, and vertigo due to Liver Yang rising.Post-stroke recovery protocols to help resolve paralysis or hemiplegia by opening the body's collaterals.Difficult or painful urination linked to heat accumulations.​These are traditionalist descriptions that form part of the TCM thinking system and must not be equated with medical diagnoses in the sense of European medicinal product law.Well-being and Daily UseEarthworm (Di Long) is valued by modern users as part of a highly targeted wellness routine aimed at supporting micro-circulation, maintaining joint mobility, and recovering from nerve or circulatory traumas. It is typically available in dried form for decoctions, as a concentrated powder, or increasingly as standardized lumbrokinase capsules. Because of its salty, cold nature and its potent effect on blood clotting, it is generally used with caution by pregnant women and individuals on blood-thinning medications, and it works optimally within balanced herbal mixtures.Many users see earthworm (Di Long) as a vital intervention for circulatory stagnation and internal heat – functioning as a supportive element in traditional routines, strictly alongside professional guidance and regular medical care when needed.