Abstract

CONCEPTUAL STUDY ON JALAUKAVACHARANA AND ITS MODE OF ACTION

Dr. Vikrant Thakur* and Dr. Vikash Bhatnagar

Abstract

Jalaukavacharna or Hirudotherapy or Leech therapy is a form of Raktmokshan by use of Leeches. Leeches are segmented worms that belong to phylum Annelida and comprise the subclass Hirudinea. Raktamokshan is a Shodhna procedure in which vitiated doshas in Rakta are eliminated. Jalaukavacharna is described by Acharya Sushruta and Vagbhata in Classical Ayurveda Texts. Leech sucks impure blood and removes toxins and vitiated doshas from the body, especially in Pitta vitiated Rakta. Saliva of Leech contains various bioactive substances which have anti-coagulating, thrombolytic, antiinflammatory and vasodilator effects. Jalaukavacharna is used effectively in management of non-healing ulcerative lesions like diabetic ulcers and leprotic wounds, Skin disorders like eczema, acne and psoriasis, cellulites, abscess, varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, atherosclerosis etc.

Keywords: Jalauka, Raktamokshana, saliva.