Spider webs have a long history in medicine, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, where physicians relied on their unique properties to treat wounds. Known for their impressive tensile strength and delicate, silk-like texture, spider webs were believed to help bind wounds and promote healing. Soldiers and medics would carefully gather webs, sometimes mixing them with honey or vinegar to add antiseptic qualities before applying them to injuries.

One of the remarkable benefits of using spider webs as bandages comes from their structural composition. Spider silk contains proteins that have mild antibacterial properties, which can protect against infections. Additionally, the web’s fine, sticky threads created a natural barrier over wounds, supporting clotting and keeping dirt and debris away. This practical use was not only inventive but also readily accessible, particularly in times of war when traditional bandages were scarce.

While modern medicine has moved beyond spider webs as a primary wound treatment, scientists remain fascinated by their properties. The proteins in spider silk are still being studied for potential uses in medical technology, from wound dressings to sutures, thanks to their biocompatibility and strength.