Where medicinal leeches do work modern medicine cannot.
Leech therapy remains a frontline tool in specific indications — most notably relieving venous congestion in compromised flaps and replants.
Three established fields of practice.
Reconstructive & microsurgery
Relieving venous congestion in skin flaps, replanted digits and free-tissue transfer — the leading evidence-based application.
Hirudotherapy
Traditional practitioner-led therapy for selected musculoskeletal and circulatory complaints.
Veterinary
Applied in specialist veterinary practice under qualified supervision.
A living infusion of bioactive compounds.
During feeding, leech saliva introduces a complex of bioactive molecules that, together with active blood removal, decongest tissue.
- AnticoagulantsHirudin and related compounds inhibit clotting, sustaining flow at the bite site.
- DecongestionActive blood removal relieves venous congestion while inflow re-establishes.
- Vasoactive & anti-inflammatory factorsAdditional salivary factors promote local microcirculation.
This information is intended for licensed clinicians and trade partners. It is not medical advice and does not replace clinical judgement, local regulation, or product instructions for use.