This document discusses the history and uses of leech therapy. It notes that leeches have been used for medical purposes since ancient times. Leech therapy involves applying leeches to the skin to relieve conditions like joint pain and promote healing. The leeches secrete substances in their saliva that prevent clotting, reduce pain and swelling, and improve circulation. While leech therapy was widely used historically, it still has applications today such as improving blood flow after reattachments in microvascular surgery.