Amongst the blood-sucking organisms, leech is a distinct example of an invertebrate, which possesses a highly-developed mechanism by which they prevents blood clotting. Hematophagous animals that feed on prey blood have been known to overcome blood clotting by secreting in their salivary gland secretion a multitude of biologically active compounds, especially the anticoagulants. Despite the efficacious properties of leech therapy, the safety, and complications of leeching are still controversial. Many clinics for plastic surgery all over the world started to use leeches for cosmetic purposes. In the 20 th century, leech therapy has established itself in plastic and microsurgery as a protective tool against venous congestion and served to salvage the replanted digits and flaps. Consequently, leech has made a comeback as a new remedy for many chronic and life-threatening abnormalities, such as cardiovascular problems, cancer, metastasis, and infectious diseases. Recently, extensive researches on leech saliva unveiled the presence of a variety of bioactive peptides and proteins involving antithrombin (hirudin, bufrudin), antiplatelet (calin, saratin), factor Xa inhibitors (lefaxin), antibacterial (theromacin, theromyzin) and others. Ancient Egyptian, Indian, Greek and Arab physicians used leeches for a wide range of diseases starting from the conventional use for bleeding to systemic ailments, such as skin diseases, nervous system abnormalities, urinary and reproductive system problems, inflammation, and dental problems.
The blood-sucking annelids, leeches have been used for therapeutic purposes since the beginning of civilization. Hematophagous animals including leeches have been known to possess biologically active compounds in their secretions, especially in their saliva.
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