American Society of Hirudotherapy

Management of herpes zoster in Ayurveda through medicinal leeches and other composite Ayurveda Treatment

Research article published in Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine (2020)

Last Updated: November 1, 2026ASH Editorial · based on the books
Research article — evidence review: Off-label use means application outside the FDA-cleared indication. Clinical evidence (RCTs or systematic reviews) supports this use, but the FDA has not cleared it.Article reference: Content describes science, methodology, or organizational reference material — not a clinical efficacy claim.
Evidence: Case reportClinical LiteratureNakanekar et al. · Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 2020

Abstract

Herpes zoster commonly known as shingle's caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV). Recent studies have shown that exosomes play important role in pathogenesis as well as spread of herpes. Leeches when applied over affected part of herpes sucks the blood and there by interferes with extracellular communication through these exosomes and their by showing pain reduction, reduction in burning and arrest progression of disease. This technique is cost effective and easy to apply. In Ayurveda herpes can be correlated with Pittaj visarpa. Principle of treatment is Raktmokshan (~Bloodletting) and Pradeha (~Local application of medicines). Bloodletting with Jalauka (~Medicinal Leeches) is specifically indicated in management of Pitta dominant disorder. A 65-year-old female known case of Type 2 Diabetes (DM) and presented in Casualty of Government Ayurved College, Nagpur (GACN). We treated her Herpes zoster on the basic principles of management of Pittaj Visarpa. Management of Type 2 DM was continued as per modern medicine consultant. Rapid decrease in pain severity was observed after the 1st setting of leech therapy according to Zoster Specific Brief Pain Inventory (ZBPI) Questionnaire. After each seating pain reduction was observed. Repeated application of Jalauka along with internal medications gave complete relief. Ayurveda pain management in herpes zoster by leech therapy gives innovative easy, better and cost effective treatment. Adaptive trials are necessary to explore further practical applicability of Ayurveda and modern treatment together. Future research on effect of leech application on exosomes is necessary.

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

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article

Summary

Peer-reviewed clinical and outcomes research relevant to medicinal leech therapy and its biology. Indexed in PubMed and verified against the NCBI record.

Citation

Reference (Vancouver style)

Nakanekar A, Khobarkar P, Dhotkar S. Management of herpes zoster in Ayurveda through medicinal leeches and other composite Ayurveda Treatment. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2020;11(3):352-356. doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2020.05.008. PMID: 32798195

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

DOIPubMed

Added to ASH library: May 28, 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.