In the shadow of modern medicine, leech therapy continues to ‘heal’ in Kashmir

Srinagar: Despite the rapid advancement of medical science, the ancient practice of leech therapy continues to thrive in Kashmir, with many locals turning to this centuries-old treatment for relief from long-standing ailments.

Leech therapy, which was commonly used in medieval medicine, involves applying live leeches to treat various conditions, including blood circulation problems and skin disorders.

Every year, especially during Novruz (the Persian New Year), practitioners set up outdoor clinics in markets like Hazratbal, where hundreds of people seek the remedy.

Even some Unani hospitals in Kashmir too have started using leeches on patients suffering from skin diseases, arthritis, chronic headaches and sinusitis.

While modern medicine largely dismisses leech therapy due to the availability of more advanced treatments, some local practitioners in Kashmir defend its use. They argue that when applied correctly, leech therapy is a safe, natural alternative with minimal side effects.

Hakeem Naseer Ahmad, a Unani practitioner, explains that the therapy helps treat a variety of conditions, including fatty liver, hypertension, and blood clotting, which can lead to strokes. “Leeches don’t just remove blood; they inject enzymes from their saliva into the bloodstream, which improves micro-circulation and helps achieve therapeutic effects,” he said.

However, modern medical experts remain cautious about the practice’s efficacy. A senior doctor from the community medicine department at Government Medical College in Srinagar acknowledges that leech therapy has been used for blood circulation issues but warns that it can also introduce bacterial infections, including drug-resistant strains.

“The research on this therapy is limited, and more studies are needed to fully assess its benefits and risks. I don’t recommend such practices, which were used before the advent of antibiotics and antiseptics,” he said.

Leech therapy sees its peak on March 21, when belief in its healing power is strongest. Dr. Ahmad explains that according to the Unani system of medicine, the body requires detoxification during two seasons each year—spring and autumn.

“Of these, spring is considered the most effective time for detox. This tradition has been followed for hundreds of years,” he said and added the therapy is useful in treating both hypertension (high blood pressure) as well as hypotension (low blood pressure).

For many patients, leech therapy offers relief when modern medicine has failed. “I tried everything from painkillers to physical therapy, but nothing worked as well as leech therapy,” said Mohammad Ibrahim, who recently used the treatment for chronic joint pain.

The procedure’s perceived low risk continues to contribute to its popularity among those seeking alternative treatments.