Does earthworm (Dilong) cause kidney damage?

Under normal circumstances, earthworm (Dilong) does not cause kidney damage; however, taking excessive amounts may lead to other adverse reactions. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Earthworm (Dilong) is one of the important traditional Chinese medicinal herbs with relatively mild properties. It is primarily used to treat conditions such as high fever, rheumatic paralysis, lung-heat asthma, and has certain protective effects on the liver and kidneys. It is mainly employed to manage symptoms like convulsions and seizures caused by high fever. When patients experience hemiplegia, Dilong can be used to help unblock meridians and relieve joint pain due to rheumatic paralysis. Because of its salty and cold nature that directs downward into the kidneys, it can also treat urinary obstruction and difficult urination. Therefore, when used properly, Dilong does not harm the kidneys. However, if taken in excessive doses, it may cause dizziness, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, rashes, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms.

Although Dilong has good therapeutic effects, pregnant women, individuals with yang deficiency, yin impairment, or blood deficiency should avoid taking it. Its use during pregnancy may lead to threatened miscarriage. In people with yang deficiency, yin impairment, or blood deficiency, it may worsen their symptoms and cause cold limbs. Therefore, it should only be used under the guidance of a physician to prevent harm to the body.