American Society of Hirudotherapy

Leech hirudo medicinalis: a therapeutic alternative available in Mexico

Review published in Revista medica del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (2009)

Last Updated: November 1, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewClinical LiteratureSalivary PharmacologyDrug DevelopmentGenomics & ProteomicsCornejo-Esquerra A et al. · Revista medica del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, 2009

Abstract

Throughout history a diversity of therapeutic properties have been attributed to the leech Hirudo medicinalis, however, during the past twenty years its use has proven to be a practical and effective method for the relief of venous engorgement in reconstructive surgery. In Mexico this practice has been limited due to the lack of supply and to the time-consuming process of importation. Based on this need, the animal facilities of the Occidental Biomedical Research Center-IMSS in Guadalajara, Jalisco, has initiated a breeding and reproduction program of this species with the aim at improving its availability as a therapeutic device. The salivary gland of Hirudo medicinalis contains one of the most potent natural anticoagulants, known as hirudin, a histamine-like vasodilator, platelet aggregation inhibitors and highly specific proteases, all of which favor venous flow and turn this species into the most useful in the clinical setting. Nevertheless, it is important to know the potential risks of leech therapy since it has been associated with considerable morbidity when adequate precautions are not taken. This review exposes relevant aspects of the medicinal leech, the indications, mechanism of action and the protocol for this therapy.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeEnglish AbstractJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsHirudo medicinalisLeechingMexico

Summary

This review describes Hirudo medicinalis therapy for venous engorgement in reconstructive surgery, whose saliva contains hirudin, a histamine-like vasodilator and proteases, plus a Mexican breeding program to improve leech supply; risks exist when precautions are neglected.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This review describes the therapeutic use of Hirudo medicinalis in Mexico, covering its established role in relieving venous engorgement in reconstructive surgery and the initiation of a captive breeding program at IMSS's Occidental Biomedical Research Center in Guadalajara to improve local availability. The article details key salivary components—hirudin, a histamine-like vasodilator, platelet aggregation inhibitors, and specific proteases—that collectively promote venous flow, and outlines clinical indications, mechanisms of action, therapeutic protocols, and potential risks including morbidity when adequate precautions are not taken. The review addresses both the pharmacological basis of the leech salivary secretome and the practical infrastructure needed to deliver leech therapy in a clinical setting. As a review, it synthesizes existing knowledge rather than presenting new experimental findings, and its focus on a specific Mexican breeding initiative may limit the generalizability of its practical recommendations.

Citation

Reference (Vancouver style)

Cornejo-Esquerra A, Talleri-de-Andrea G, de Jesús Blanco-Favela J, Ramos-Mora A, Villarán-Muñoz B. [Leech hirudo medicinalis: a therapeutic alternative available in Mexico]. Rev Med Inst Mex Seguro Soc. 2009;47(3):335-340. PMID: 20141667

Bibliographic details (authors, volume, pages, DOI) are taken from the PubMed record.

PubMed

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: November 1, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.