In Turkey, traditional therapies are deeply rooted in the country’s culture and history. One such therapy, Leech Therapy, has gained popularity as a remedy. To understand this unique therapy and the patient’s experience, we spoke to a woman, who for the sake of anonymity, we’ll refer to as “Alice”. Alice underwent Leech Therapy at a traditional Turkish clinic.
🗣️ Interviewer: What is Leech Therapy, and how does it work?
💬 Patient: Leech Therapy, known as “Sülük” in Turkey, is a traditional treatment that uses leeches to provide enzymes necessary for the body. Enzymes are crucial for bodily functions, activating various processes and ensuring the body remains functional. Leeches are placed on specific areas of the skin, and their sucking action causes enzymes to be released, which then enter the bloodstream. This increases the activity of the blood vessels, potentially improving circulation. 💧
🗣️ Interviewer: Why did you want to have Leech therapy treatment?
💬 Patient: I had heard about the potential benefits of Leech Therapy for improving circulation and overall health, so I wanted to give it a try. 🌟
🗣️ Interviewer: Did you need to make any preparations before your Leech Therapy treatment?
💬 Patient: Yes, before the treatment, I was instructed to avoid consuming any animal products, including eggs, yogurt, milk, cheese, and fish, for three days. On the day of the treatment, I made sure to take a shower and be completely clean before arriving at the clinic. 🚿
🗣️ Interviewer: Can you describe your experience when you visited the practitioner for the treatment?
💬 Patient: Sure! Upon arrival, the practitioner asked me to shower and be completely clean. Then I laid down on a stretcher. The treatment started with the placement of approximately ten leeches on my face. 🛏️
🗣️ Interviewer: Is there a chance that these leeches might accidentally sneak into the nose 👃, mouth 👄, eyes 👀, or ears 👂?
💬 Patient: Nope, these leeches are pretty clever; they stick to the skin. The practitioner knows precisely where to position them to prevent any unintended access to delicate areas. 🧠
🗣️ Interviewer: Approximately how long did the Leeches stay on your skin?
💬 Patient: Approximately 15 minutes ⏳
🗣️ Interviewer: What happened after the leeches were removed?
💬 Patient: Following the removal of the leeches, the practitioner administered kantaron oil (St. John’s Wort oil) to the treated areas using cotton pads. This oil is produced by steeping the plant in olive oil for 45 days under sunlight, which is crucial for the healing process. 🌼🧴
🗣️ Interviewer: Once the leeches had been removed, did you notice any changes in how you felt? 🔄
💬 Patient: The area of the skin where the leeches were applied might have felt slightly sensitive or tingly, but nothing too serious. The overall sensation was one of lightness and ease, as if the blood had been rejuvenated and cleansed. ✨
🗣️ Interviewer: Did you notice any immediate changes after the treatment, or did it take some time?
💬 Patient: After the treatment, my skin felt slightly sensitive, but the coolness of the oil helped to soothe that. I didn’t notice any immediate changes, but after a couple of days, my skin felt more refreshed, and I had an overall feeling of well-being. It was a gradual process, but I definitely felt the benefits. 😊
🛑 Disclaimer: This article is not intended as medical advice. Consult with your doctor before undergoing any medical treatment. The experiences described in this article are based on personal accounts and may not be representative of everyone’s experience with Leech Therapy.