Objective:To study the processing history of edible and medicinal resources of spiders in China

investigate their clinical practices and compatibility methods according to the past literature

supplement relevant information

and further provide a useful reference for developing spider resources and new drugs. Method:We looked through the herbal literature

summed up the types of domestic edible and medicinal spiders as well as their clinical prescriptions by considering the authors' investigation. Result:There were 18 species from 8 families for edible and medicinal spiders. According to their individual size

they could be divided into small and medium-size spiders and large spiders. The former ones had 6 families and 14 species

which were widely used in traditional Chinese medicine; the latter ones had 2 families and 4 species

rich in spider toxins

and were widely used in the medicine of Li nationality

and were also the main source in spider drug development in the future. There were various processing methods and medicinal parts of spiders in China

and they were mainly used in clinical compatibility for hernia

pain

rheumatism

ulcer

unknown sores

internal and external hemorrhoids

bromhidrosis

etc. By grounding powder

they could be used for oral administration

dipping into wine or pills and powder; on the other hand

they could be used for external rubbing or tamping. In addition

there were 7 species of spiders which could be eaten by ethnic minorities

which were often fried or grilled after getting rid of head and foot. Conclusion:More large spiders used as medicinal and edible resources should be expanded in future

and comprehensive utilization should be made based on various parts of the spider and the chemical compositions. Further studies are needed to elaborate the development of classic prescriptions and drug application knowledge used for minority nationality. By combining with modern biological technology

it can lay a firm foundation for the development of modern spider resources.