ROLE OF JALAUKAVACHARANA (LEECH THERAPY) IN COSMETOLOGY
Dr. Roshani Yawale* and Dr. M. Yusuf M. Shareef Sheikh
ABSTRACT
Jalaukavacharana is a boon to Ayurveda. It is one of the type of
Raktamokshana (blood- letting) which is a procedure of Panchakarma.
It is also known as Hirudotherapy or Leech therapy. Since ancient
days, therapeutic use of Jalaukavacharana is practiced. In Sushruta
Samhita there is separate chapter described on Jalaukavacharana. It is
a simple and para surgical process. Cosmetological use of herbs is well
defined in Ayurveda. The use of Leech therapy is also emphasized in
various dermatological conditions in Ayurved texts. According to
Ayurveda vitiated Dosha causes the disease. Leech therapy is useful to
remove vitiated Dosha, mostly Pitta Dosha and cure the various diseases such as
Mukhadushika, Indralupta, Twak vikara, Sandhigatavata, Netraroga, Shiraroga etc. During
Jalaukavacharana jalauka imbibe the blood through the body and secrete various bioactive
substance such as hirudin, antimicrobial, vasodilators, platelet aggregation inhibitors and
anti-inflamatory agents; which provides nutrients and eliminate toxins. This therapy increases
the blood circulation of that place and purifies the blood. Thus the current article illustrates
the role of Jalaukavacharana in Cosmetology.
Keywords: Jalaukavacharana, Leech therapy, Raktamokshana, Cosmetology, Indralupta, Mukhadushika.
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