The leaves of the Ghost Gum, (Corymbia bella) (previously Eucalyptus papuana) have been formed into a Green Ant nest; this is unusual as larger, broader leaves are generally preferred by Green Ants (Oecophylla smaragdina).
Green Ants are used as medicine by MalakMalak people and are called pirrinykam. The nest is crushed in the hands and the juice is rubbed over the skin, this also stops the skin from feeling itchy. The large mother or queen ants are eaten to treat colds and influenza; they have a sharp taste. Many other Aboriginal groups also use these ants as medicine and food. The green abdomen of workers can be eaten, it has a pleasant tangy taste caused by the formic acid they contain, which has medicinal properties as a mild expectorant and antimicrobial. Glenn Wightman 2006
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