1988/09/01 by Stephen L. Adams · 1 citation
Medicine · Arts and Humanities · #Leech Biology and Applications #Medical History and Innovations #Leech #Bloodletting #Medicine #Hirudo medicinalis #Delicacy #Popularity #Acupuncture #Medical practice #Alternative medicine #Family medicine #Law #Pathology #Ecology
paper · doi:10.7326/0003-4819-109-5-399
openalex publication_date 1988/09/01 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/01/13
Leeches have been used in health care since ancient times by physician and layman alike. As just one of several methods of bloodletting, the leech became the focus of a science that included such subjects as indications, modes of attachment, complications, and relative contraindications. The popularity of leeching has varied immensely over the years. In the 19th century, this annelid saw its numbers decimated because of protean medicinal indications. The leech lost its hold on the practice of medicine in the early 20th century. Recently, the use of leeches has resurged in both the lay and the scientific communities.