Leech Therapy Service Standard

Leech Therapy Service Standard

The "Leech Therapy Service Standard" was developed in 2021 by the Secretariat of the Strategic Council for Developing Health Guidelines, in collaboration with Tehran University of Medical Sciences, the Scientific Association of Traditional Persian Medicine, and the Persian Medicine and Complementary Medicine Office of the Ministry of Health. This standard specifically addresses leech therapy (Hirudotherapy) as a therapeutic method in Traditional Persian Medicine and encompasses the following topics:

1. Definition and Applications of Leech Therapy
A method for blood purification and disease treatment using medicinal leeches.
Applications in treating conditions such as post-surgical hematoma, varicose veins, diabetic foot ulcers, joint pain, infertility, and coagulation disorders.

2. Characteristics of Suitable and Prohibited Leeches

• Suitable Leeches: Hirudo medicinalis with specific physical characteristics (olive-green color, yellow stripes on the dorsum).

• Toxic and Prohibited Leeches: Leeches with variable colors, those grown in polluted waters, or those with blue stripes.

3. Considerations Before, During, and After Treatment

• Before Treatment: Avoidance of heavy meals, assessment of patient's condition (absence of coagulation disorders, severe anemia, pregnancy).

• During Treatment: Control of blood loss volume, prevention of infection, and monitoring for allergic reactions.

• After Treatment: Avoiding sleep for up to 6 hours, consuming light meals, and refraining from strenuous activities.

4. Indications and Contraindications

• Indications: Tissue grafting, skin diseases (eczema, psoriasis), gastrointestinal issues (gastric ulcers), and inflammatory diseases.

• Contraindications: Patients with coagulation disorders (hemophilia), those taking anticoagulant medications, pregnant women (except in essential cases).

5. Implementation Standards

• Physical Environment: A room with a temperature of 23-25°C, washable surfaces, and equipped with proper ventilation.

• Equipment: Glass containers for holding leeches, sterile instruments, and resuscitation facilities.

• Practitioner Qualifications: Only specialized physicians in Traditional Persian Medicine (holding a Ph.D.) are authorized to prescribe and perform leech therapy.

The complete file of the "Leech Therapy Standard" is available for download at the bottom of this page (below the dashed line).