American Society of Hirudotherapy

Salivary lipid profiles of the leech (Hirudo medicinalis).

Research article published in Lipids (1996)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Preclinical (animal)Salivary PharmacologyDrug DevelopmentRabinowitz · Lipids, 1996

Abstract

Saliva was collected from sixteen leeches (Hirudo medicinalis). The saliva was analyzed for its total lipid content (3.26 +/- 0.31 mg of total lipids per 100 mL saliva). The lipids were separated into polar and nonpolar by chromatographic techniques. The neutral fraction was approximately 2/3 of the total, and the polar fraction was approximately 1/3 of the total lipids. Thin-layer chromatography was used to obtain the individual profiles of the polar and nonpolar lipids. Of the identified lipids, phosphatidic acids and free fatty acids represented the largest percentage. These results suggest that the leech contains a unique lipid distribution, and that some of these components may be potent phospholipases and lipases that probably are present in its saliva for the purpose of preventing plugging or healing of the wound in the attacked organism.

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

Publication typeJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsChromatography, Thin LayerFatty Acids, NonesterifiedLeechesLipidsPhosphatidic AcidsSaliva

Summary

Saliva was collected from sixteen leeches (Hirudo medicinalis). The saliva was analyzed for its total lipid content (3.26 +/- 0.31 mg of total lipids per 100 mL saliva).

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

The abstract reports analysis of saliva collected from sixteen Hirudo medicinalis leeches, with a total lipid content of 3.26 ± 0.31 mg per 100 mL saliva, separated into neutral (about two-thirds) and polar (about one-third) fractions; phosphatidic acids and free fatty acids represented the largest identified components. This is directly relevant to ASH's domain because it characterizes part of the leech salivary secretome. The authors suggest some components may be potent phospholipases or lipases that help prevent plugging or healing of the host wound, but this functional role is presented as speculation rather than demonstrated activity. The study covers only salivary lipids and makes no therapeutic or hirudotherapy efficacy claims.

Citation

Salivary lipid profiles of the leech (Hirudo medicinalis).

Rabinowitz · Lipids, 1996

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 28, 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.