Leech Therapy

Leech therapy, known as Hirudotherapy, uses medicinal leeches applied to the skin to draw out small amounts of blood, believed in traditional Unani and Siddha medicine to remove impure or stagnant blood and relieve localised inflammation and pain. Leech saliva contains natural compounds with anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties that are thought to contribute to the therapy's therapeutic effects beyond the blood removal itself. It has a long history of use for conditions like varicose veins, arthritis, and certain skin conditions, and has also found modern surgical application in reconstructive and microsurgery to relieve venous congestion in reattached tissue. The therapy is performed under strict hygienic conditions using medically bred, disease-free leeches.

Leech Therapy is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Unani & Siddha Medicine specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.

The typical duration is 30-60 minutes. This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.

Recovery typically takes The bite site is kept clean and covered with a light dressing for a day or two while the minor continued bleeding from the anticoagulant effect subsides naturally. Mild itching or tenderness at the site can persist for several days as the wound heals. Repeat sessions are sometimes recommended at intervals for chronic conditions, with the treatment area rotated to allow proper healing between sessions.. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.

Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.

Leech Therapy has a documented success rate of Effective for localised inflammatory and circulatory conditions at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.