SRINAGAR: A man flinches as a leech attaches itself to his skin in a small clinic near Hazratbal. The therapist closely monitors the creature to ensure it serves its purpose effectively. In Kashmir, leech therapy remains a viable alternative to modern medicine for many people, making it more than just an outdated practice.
Leech therapist Mohd Lateef Hajam, who has been practicing for two decades, reports a steady stream of patients each year, particularly during Nawroz (Iranian New Year). “Most people seek treatment for frostbite, joint pain, and blood circulation issues,” he informed.
“They often have little trust in conventional medicine, so they turn to traditional methods instead,” he explained.
With the rise of social media, traditional healing methods like leech therapy are gaining renewed attention. Many people learn about these treatments online, where users share their personal experiences and historical significance.
"The increase in social media users has made it possible to reach every citizen, and as a result, many people share posts about these natural healing methods that have been used since ancient times," said Shafiq Ahmad.
Leeches are small parasitic worms that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. They are known for their ability to improve circulation, promote healing, and relieve venous congestion. Recently, leech therapy has made a comeback as a complementary treatment in modern surgery and other medical practices.
From its origins in ancient Egypt to its current applications, the use of leeches highlights their enduring importance in medicine.
Leeching in History
A 2008 research paper titled “Leeching in History: A Review,” published on PubMed provides a comprehensive overview of leech therapy's historical development. The study highlights its application in treating various ailments, ranging from fevers to flatulence, and documents its peak usage during the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe.
“The earliest clearly documented record of leeches being used for remedial purposes appears in a painting in an Egyptian tomb from around 1500 BC,” the paper notes. However, the rise of germ theory in the early 20th century led to a decline in its popularity.
“It was in the 1970s that leech therapy was revived, limited to microsurgeries to relieve venous congestion,” the authors explain, adding that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved leeches for medical use in microsurgeries and plastic surgeries during the 21st century.
The process of leech therapy begins with the practitioner identifying and marking the affected area of the body. Then, live leeches are placed on specific spots where the patient is experiencing an infection, inflammation, or a blood-related issue.
The leeches attach themselves to the skin and start sucking blood, releasing natural anticoagulants and pain-relieving compounds in the process. This is believed to improve circulation, reduce swelling, and promote healing.
For many, leech therapy serves as a connection between traditional and modern medicine.
Shafat Ahmad, an elderly man who has undergone this treatment multiple times, shared his experience: “Leech therapy has been around for many years, long before modern medicine was developed,” he said.
“I’ve personally tried it a couple of times, especially for my joint pain, and I can tell you that it really works. It helps with circulation, joint pain, and even skin issues like chilblains. I’ve seen it work wonders for many people in my community.”
Leech Therapy First Timers
For first-time users, leech therapy can be both intriguing and intimidating. Mehfuza Rashid, 22, decided to give the treatment a chance after struggling with chronic pain.
She said, "I’ve heard a lot about how it helps with issues like poor circulation and joint pain. People have used leeches for centuries, and although it sounds a bit strange, I’m hoping it will be more effective than the medications I’ve tried that haven’t worked well."
While modern medicine remains the preferred choice for most, some individuals in Kashmir continue to seek traditional treatments like leech therapy. For Zaid Mushtaq, an engineering student, it was an unexpected solution to his persistent pain.
“I had a twist in my thumb due to an accident,” Mushtaq said. “I went to a doctor who prescribed me some medicine and gave me an orthopaedic immobilizer, which I had to wear for two to three weeks. But I didn’t feel any relief, and I couldn’t move my thumb at all—it felt like it was going to explode. That’s when I decided to visit a local chiropractor.”
The chiropractor wrapped medical tape around Mushtaq’s thumb joint, marked two spots, and recommended that he see a leech therapist.
“I went to the leech therapist, who first cleaned the area and checked where the leeches should be placed,” he said. “He initially put one leech on my thumb, but it didn’t latch on, so he tried another. When it was attached, it felt like a needle prick. The process lasted for about 10 minutes. After it was done, I felt immediate relief, and from that day forward, my thumb improved with each passing day.”
While leech therapy remains a debated practice, Mushtaq is among those who believe in its effectiveness. Experts say more research is needed to fully understand its benefits, but anecdotal experiences like his continue to fuel interest in the treatment.
Javaid Ahmad Malik, 28, shared his experience with leech therapy for chilblains. “In my childhood, I suffered from severe chilblains. My mother used to tell me that leeches were a traditional remedy for this condition.
Treatment for Chillblains
After 20 years, when the issue resurfaced, I decided to give leech therapy another try. To my surprise, it worked wonders once again. The leeches helped to increase blood flow and provided quick relief,” he explained. He added, “This experience convinced me of the effectiveness of traditional treatments, especially when modern medicine doesn’t seem to deliver the results I’m looking for.”
Dr. Reyaz Ahmad emphasized both the medicinal benefits and potential risks associated with leech therapy.
He explained, "Leeches contain hirudin, a substance in their saliva that acts as an anticoagulant, preventing blood clots. However, it is important to remember that any procedure involving skin punctures carries a risk of infection. People should also take care to avoid using unsterilized objects."
For some families, leech therapy is more than just a medical treatment; it is a generational trade.
Mohd Lateef Hajam, who has been in the leech therapy business for nearly two decades, shared his perspective: “This is a generational business,” he said.
“As far as I know, my grandfather was the first in our family to engage in this work. I have continued the tradition. We primarily run a shop in Tailbal, near Foreshore Road, but we also visit the Dargah Hazratbal on Fridays to provide leech therapy.”
Hajam explained that leeches are often sourced from Qazigund, but they are brought in from states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. He noted that leeches are primarily used to treat frostbite during the colder months, as well as joint and bone issues. Most patients seek this therapy once a year, he added.
Therapeutic Potential of Leech Therapy
A 2024 systematic review published in Frontiers in Medicine highlighted the therapeutic potential of leech therapy.
The study noted, “Leech saliva contains bioactive compounds that act as natural anticoagulants, analgesics, and anti-inflammatory agents, offering significant benefits for wound healing and pain relief.” However, it also emphasized the importance of monitoring for complications such as prolonged bleeding and infections.
While some studies have shown its efficacy in conditions like arthritis and diabetic neuropathy, others have raised concerns about its limitations.
For instance, one study reported no beneficial effects for knee osteoarthritis when leeches were forcibly removed using NaCl (Salt), potentially impacting outcomes.
Leech therapy’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Despite advancements in modern medicine, this ancient remedy continues to attract those seeking alternative treatments for chronic pain, circulation issues, and other ailments.
As research into its applications expands, leech therapy may find even broader acceptance, bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and scientific innovation.
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