American Society of Hirudotherapy

[The medicinal leech Hirudo medicinalis: clinical use of the animal and therapeutic prospects of hirudin]

Research article published in Journal de pharmacie de Belgique (1990)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewClinical TrialsDrug DevelopmentGenomics & ProteomicsHenriot J et al. · Journal de pharmacie de Belgique, 1990

Abstract

Blood sucking leech, Hirudo medicinalis, used in Medicine for very long, knew an intensive employment during early 18e century but its excess was responsible of the temporary disparition of the animal from the therapeutics. Leech has currently recovered a clinical use, especially in microsurgery. On the other hand, hirudin, main active compound isolated from leech extract and also known and used for long, offers interesting outlooks by its anticoagulant and antithrombic properties. This explains the great interest of hirudin preparation by molecular genetics.

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

Publication typeEnglish AbstractJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsGenetic EngineeringHirudin TherapyHirudinsHumansLeechesRecombinant Proteins

Summary

Blood sucking leech, Hirudo medicinalis, used in Medicine for very long, knew an intensive employment during early 18e century but its excess was responsible of the temporary disparition of the animal from the therapeutics.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

The article discusses the historical and current clinical use of Hirudo medicinalis, noting its intensive employment during the early 18th century, its temporary disappearance from therapeutics due to excessive use, and its modern recovery — particularly in microsurgery. It also addresses the therapeutic prospects of hirudin, described as the main active compound isolated from leech extract with anticoagulant and antithrombotic properties, and the interest in hirudin preparation through molecular genetics. This is directly relevant to hirudotherapy and ASH's domain, linking the leech's clinical role to the broader therapeutic potential of one of its key active compounds. The abstract provides a general discussion of established knowledge and future outlooks without presenting detailed experimental data, quantitative outcomes, or specific new findings, limiting its contribution to background and contextual understanding.

Citation

[The medicinal leech Hirudo medicinalis: clinical use of the animal and therapeutic prospects of hirudin].

Henriot J et al. · Journal de pharmacie de Belgique, 1990

DOI

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 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.