Jaloukavacharana or leech therapy is a unique therapy from Ayurveda, belonging to Raktamokshana (bloodletting treatments). It involves the use of medicinal leeches (Jalouka) to gently draw out impure or vitiated blood from the body.
Hence, this therapy is safe, natural, and particularly effective in the treatment of skin diseases, joint disorders, blood-related conditions, and more.
In Ayurveda, the main cause of ailments is when the blood (Rakta Dhatu) is vitiated with toxins (amas) or aggravated doshas, especially Pitta Dosha.
What is Leech Therapy?
- It is a painless, minimally invasive detoxification method.
- The saliva of medicinal leeches contains bioactive enzymes like Hirudin, which acts as an anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and pain reliever.
- Unlike artificial bloodletting, leeches selectively suck out the impure blood from the body, which helps balance and rejuvenate affected areas.
Method of Leech Application
– The affected part of the body is cleaned with herbal decoctions.
– A medicinal leech is placed directly on the area.
– The leech attaches naturally and starts sucking the impure blood.
– Once, the action is complete of the leech, it either detaches on its own or it is removed with turmeric powder or rock salt.
– Finally, the area is cleaned and dressed with herbal antiseptics.
Procedure of Jaloukavacharana at Vaidyaratnam Vrindavan Ayurveda Chikitsalayam
| Pre-Treatment (Purva Karma): Detailed consultation and Nadi Parikshan (Pulse Diagnosis). Further, selection of healthy medicinal leeches for the therapy. Before the treatment, activate them with turmeric water. Finally, cleansing the patient’s affected area with neem/turmeric decoction. |
| During Treatment (Pradhana Karma): Leeches are applied directly to the area where they suck out impure blood for 20 to 40 mins. Herbal support like mild oils or powders may be used to keep the area clean. |
| Post-Treatment (Paschat Karma): Detachment of leech and ensuring it expels ingested blood. Cleaning and disinfecting the bite area with turmeric or herbal antiseptics. Accompanying it with light organic, sattvic diet with complete rest. |
What is Used in Jaloukavacharana and Why?
- Medicinal Leeches (Jalouka): Natural blood purifiers, their saliva prevents clotting, reduces pain, and improves circulation.
- Turmeric Powder/ Rock Salt: To safely detach leech and disinfect the site.
- Neem Decoction: Cleanses and prevents infections before therapy.
- Herbal Antiseptic Oils/Powders: Protect the bite site post-procedure.
Benefits of Leech Therapy
– Purifies blood naturally by removing vitiated Pitta and toxins
– Relieves pain, swelling, and inflammation in joints and muscles
– Improves microcirculation, preventing clot formation
– Speeds up wound healing, especially in ulcers and chronic wounds
– Clears skin conditions and reduces stress on organs
– Balances Pitta dosha, bringing long-lasting relief
Ailments That Jaloukavacharana Can Cure
Skin Disorders (Eczema, Psoriasis, Abscesses, Acne) | Arthritis, Gout, Swelling, Stiffness | Impure Blood, Pitta Vitiation, Clotting Issues | Varicose Veins & Thrombosis | Chronic Non-Healing Ulcers, Wounds | Eye Diseases (Netra Roga) | Migraine & Chronic Headaches
FAQ’s About Leech Therapy
1. Is Jaloukavacharana painful?
No, it is not painful. The leech’s saliva contains natural anesthetics, so the bite feels like a mild prick or no sensation at all.
2. Is it safe?
Yes, leech therapy is completely safe when performed under expert Ayurvedic doctors. At VVAC, we follow strict hygiene, sterilization, and controlled monitoring.
3. How long does a session take?
Usually between 30 to 45 minutes, mainly depending on the health seeker’s condition.
4. Can everyone undergo leech therapy?
Not everyone is recommended this therapy. For example anemic health seekers, pregnant women, children below 10, or those with bleeding disorders.
5. What happens if the leech sucks too much blood?
Medicinal leeches naturally detach once they are full. Doctors also monitor closely and can safely remove the leech at the right time.
6. Is there any risk of infection?
At Vrindavan Chikitsalayam, infection risks are prevented by washing the leeches with turmeric, neem, or rock salt water. Also, applying herbal antiseptics to the area after therapy.
7. Will there be bleeding after the leech is removed?
Yes, mild oozing of blood can occur for a few hours, which is considered therapeutic because it helps remove impure blood.
