Jalaukavacharanam or Application of Leeches

" Jalaukavacharanam " or application of leeches is an important method of treatment in diseases like tumours, certain types of arthritis, oedema skin disorders etc., according to ayurveda. This method of treatment is part of the surgical procedure described in the science of medicine. A detailed description regarding the various morphological details of different varieties of leeches is also seen in the Ayurvedic classics. In the 13 th chapter of Suthrasthana, Susrutha classifies the leeches into two main groups-namely poisonous and non-poisonous. In each group there are six distinct types of leeches. The non-poisonous variety is only used for therapeutic purposes though this from of therapy which has been considered very much useful and harmless in many diseased conditions is not being properly employed for the diseases to which this has been indicated. This neglect is on the increase in modern times. Nevertheless, there are a few Ayurvedic physicians who are capable of practicing this are successfully even now. Recent scientific studies also reveal the importance of this from of treatment. Scientists from 14 countries gathered in wales recently and examined the beneficial effects that could be attained in certain selected diseased conditions by the application of the leeches which was discarded in the past as an outdated system of treatment. It has been proved that after transplanting or reattaching human limbs or tissue the blood supply at the site of the operation often fails to return through the veins to the heart, but blocks up and reduces the supply of fresh blood through the arteries. This results in the death or decay of the tissues. Attempts by doctors, using mechanical and chemical means, to prevent tissue death once veinous problems have arisen, so far have failed. Some surgeons involved in transplants, reattachments, removing cancerous tissue or cosmetic surgery have turned to leeches to remove blood from the site of the operation and to keep blood flow regular. The leeches suck-up blood and thereby prevent necrosis. They also provide enough time for capillaries to grow across the sutures and allow normal blood flow to be resumed. The following information regarding information regarding the secretions from the leeches are also very useful for the researchers. Leeches secrete organic chemicals in their saliva which can counteract several diseases and human conditions including atherosclerosis, thrombosis and some cancers. The leeches introduce these beneficial chemicals into the body when they feeds and scientists are …