Role of Jalaukavacharana in the Management of Inflammatory and Vascular Disorders: A Review of Classical and Contemporary Evidence

Jalaukavacharana (therapeutic leech application) is a classical method of Raktamokshana described in Ayurveda and is traditionally employed in selected disorders involving vitiated Rakta and Pitta Dosha. Contemporary medicinal leech therapy has gained scientific interest because leech saliva contains biologically active substances with anti-coagulant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and vasomodulatory properties.