Leeches have been used in medicine since ancient Egypt to treat infections, dental problems, skin diseases and nervous system abnormalities.
Today, it is used for mainly for microsurgery and plastic surgery. Leeches secrete proteins and peptides that assist in preventing blood clotting.
These anticoagulant secretions keep the blood flowing and help to increase healing.
Contraindications include those that are pregnant, anaemia and compromised arteries.
Leeches are effective at increasing blood circulation and to assist in breaking up blood clots.
Other conditions that leech therapy are.
Hypertension
Varicose Veins
Haemorrhoids
Skin Problems
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Heart Disease
Cancer