Exploring Leech Therapy: A New Approach to Ulcerative Colitis

A Novel Therapy in Ulcerative Colitis: Leeching

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is damage in the lining of the colon and rectum where people suffer from symptoms associated with bowel movements. This may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue and weight loss. Although the conventional treatment of UC is typically medical therapy and surgery, various alternative or adjuvant medicine therapies such as leech-based treatments may serve as effective regimens in relief for symptoms and restoration because use of leeches has been widely reported over the tradition of many centuries.

What Is Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis involves periods of exacerbations and remissions. The exact cause of UC is unknown, but an abnormal immune response may be initiated by genetic and environmental components. The inflammation usually starts in the rectum and can affect other parts of the colon.

What is Leech Therapy?

Hirudotherapy leeches are applied to certain points of the body. These bioactive compounds including chemicals such as hirudin, anti-inflammatory agents and vasodilators located in the saliva is secreted by leeches. These compounds are believed to have medicinal value and help in inflammatory processes and healing.

The Benefits Of Using Leech Therapy For Ulcerative Colitis

Anti-Inflammatory : It has been shown that the anti-inflammatory agents present in leech saliva can lower the inflammation of the gut lining usually associated with UC, consequently working to relieve symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Increased Blood Circulation: The blood flow around the affected areas is increased through leech therapy that helps in healing and also reduces tissue damage caused due to chronic inflammation.

Relief from Pain: Leech saliva is a natural analgesic that offers relief to the abdominal pain and discomfort faced by most UC patients.

Current Research and Studies

Though there is a lack of direct research regarding the effects of leech therapy on ulcerative colitis, positive findings have been reported in other inflammatory diseases. Studies published in these journals, along with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, examine the benefits of leech therapy when it comes to decreasing inflammation and supporting recovery from gastrointestinal conditions.

What Happens in a Leech Therapy Session

Leeches are placed on the abdomen or wherever is needed by trained healthcare professionals during a leech therapy session for ulcerative colitis. Then the leeches slip on and exude their saliva, a natural gel of sorts that goes unnoticed magnificently in virtue of its anesthetic capabilities. Leech therapy is a 30- to 60-minute session and each leech used is closely monitored. Once the session is completed, the leeches will be taken off and their bites cleaned and bandaged.