What is hirudotherapy?

Hirudotherapy or leech treatment is a controversial medical practice commonly used to treat varicose veins. For these treatments, medicinal leeches are used, their scientific name being Hirudo Medicinalis. Hirudotherapy involves treating the conditions by applying to some areas of the body some leeches, namely the leeches of Hirudo Medicinalis.

About hirudotherapy and leech treatment

Leech treatment is considered one of the most effective because of hirudin, an element in lipid saliva. According to the doctors, hirudin is the most powerful anticoagulant known in medicine. Thus, immediately after applying the leech on the affected area, the blood begins to thin, favoring the improvement of blood circulation

Hirudotherapy: benefits and contraindications

Leech treatments are recommended to prevent blood clots that can cause vascular or myocardial infarction. Over time, hirudotherapy has yielded excellent results in:

• treatment and reduction of inflammatory processes in the kidneys, bile or liver. such as endometriosis or ovarian inflammation
• nervous system disorders
• respiratory problems
• skin disorders
• dental problems

Leech treatment is contraindicated for patients with contagious diseases, as well as pregnant women and children. They are also not used for cancer or tuberculosis.

Also, leeches do not apply to the neck and should not be applied to the face or abdomen. These animals can be used more than once for one patient but can not be transferred to other patients, with the possibility of transmitting microbes or diseases to the other. Because of its anticoagulant property, leeches may trigger haemophilia, blood clotting disorder.