This research discovered that nest material from jet black ants contains promising compounds that could help fight cancer, particularly melanoma. The study found that water extracts from these ant nests have strong antioxidant properties and can inhibit cancer cell growth while being safe for normal cells. This represents an exciting new source of natural medicines. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides a potential new source of natural anti-cancer treatments • Demonstrates how nature’s complex interactions can lead to valuable medical discoveries • Opens new possibilities for developing safer cancer treatments with fewer side effects • Shows how common insects like ants could contribute to human healthcare • Highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats as sources of medical compounds