This type of insect is called earthworm. It is a famous specialty of Quang Nam and Quang Ngai, especially among the Co Tu people. Many people find the sight of these larvae terrifying. However, these larvae are called sea ginseng and are considered a blessing from heaven and a miracle for sexual health. Because of this information, during the season, people rush to dig them up, and restaurants hunt for them but cannot meet the demand of customers. In the past, earthworms were abundant, but recently they have become scarce. Previously, they were used as food for chickens, but now they have become a popular specialty in restaurants.
Nowadays, restaurants and eateries buy earthworms at high prices, ranging from 250,000 to 300,000 dong. The earthworm season usually lasts from August to December, so people go digging, just with a hoe and a bucket. Digging for earthworms usually takes place from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Experienced people choose tree hollows with earthworms and can earn millions of dong per day.
The truth about the medicinal value of earthworms
The local people believe that earthworms help them become healthier. They have not had access to any scientific evidence proving the value of earthworms, but one fact is that when they use them, they feel that earthworms help enhance their sexual health and reduce joint pain and fatigue.
In some traditional medical documents, earthworms have been used by doctors for a long time, although there is no medical evidence that this type of insect has an effect on enhancing sexual abilities.
Earthworms in traditional medicine are used to treat acne, but as for the claim that they enhance the strength of men like an aphrodisiac, there is no scientific evidence or written medical documents to support this claim.
In addition, insects living underground always carry hidden toxins, so people should be cautious in the process of processing and using them.
What dishes can be made from earthworms?
Earthworms have a sweet and rich taste like chicken meat and are highly regarded by local people. They are sought after by many drinkers, so restaurants bring them in as a tempting specialty for men.
Earthworms can be processed into many dishes such as boiled, stir-fried, or minced to make pancakes. But the most enticing dish is earthworms grilled with salt and chili. Grilling with salt and chili is considered the best way to preserve the flavor of earthworms. Another popular dish is crispy rolled earthworms wrapped in betel leaves and served with plain rice cakes.
Many fans call this dish a miracle and a sea ginseng on land. However, all information about its sexual health benefits is still based on experience and folklore, without scientific evidence. But every year during the end of the year, people rush to dig them up and customers compete to order dishes from restaurants, and still, the market demand is not met.