Leeches: An Ancient Remedy's Modern Comeback?
2025-08-18
Hirudotherapy, the use of leeches in medicine, is experiencing a resurgence. This article delves into the history of leech therapy, from ancient Chinese medicine to its modern applications in reconstructive surgery. Leeches' saliva contains bioactive compounds like hirudin, possessing anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite a lack of large-scale clinical trials, leech therapy shows promise in certain contexts, such as improving blood flow in reconstructive surgery. However, infection risks and limited funding hinder further development.