Abstract

Jalauka (leech) is a water-dwelling organism used in Jalaukavcharan, a traditional Ayurvedic bloodletting therapy, particularly effective in pitta dosha vitiated disorders. Ancient Ayurvedic texts classify Jalaukas into two types: Savish (toxic) and Nirvish (non-toxic). Nirvish Jalauka was traditionally employed for therapeutic Raktamokshana (bloodletting). However, classical texts provide only limited descriptions of their characteristics, habitats, and procedures, and there is no documented scientific identification of the Nirvish Jalauka to date. Aim: To identify the closest modern biological equivalent of Kapila Jalauka described in Ayurvedic classics by comparing the characteristics of leeches from the Hirudidae family found in India and surrounding regions. Material and Methods: A comparative analysis was done among various species of the Hirudidae family native to India by the available sources and materials. The characteristics mentioned in classical literature for Kapila Jalauka such as Manahshilaranjitambhya parshva, prushthe snigdham, and prusthe mudga varna were used to identify this Jalauka. Results: Among the Hirudidae family leeches studied, Hirudinarin (Poecilobdella) granulosa exhibited the maximum resemblance to the classical description of Kapila Jalauka. This species is currently also the most commonly used medical leech in bloodletting procedures. Conclusion: It was found that Hirudinarin (Poecilobdella) granulosa leech has maximum characteristics of Kapila Jalauka and it is found the closet match.

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