Leeches Cure | National Geographic

Summary

Dr. Satchin Mandar embarks on a rare house call to treat Rajiv Kedar, who suffers from psoriasis, using leech therapy as part of Ayurveda. Despite reservations about the unconventional treatment, Rajiv seeks relief after unsuccessful attempts with Western medicine. Ayurveda posits that leeches can purify toxic blood, and Dr. Satchin, alongside his wife, believes in the method's natural benefits. They prepare the leeches with turmeric to encourage them to expel impurities. As skepticism about leech therapy persists, Dr. Satchin remains hopeful that this ancient practice will endure, showcasing the resilience of traditional healing methods in modern India.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. Satchin Mandar is a traditional healer using leeches to treat chronic conditions like psoriasis.
• 🩸 Leeches are part of an ancient Ayurvedic treatment system that emphasizes holistic health.
• 💊 Many Indians prefer traditional remedies over modern medicine, leading to a resurgence of practices like leech therapy.
• 🌿 Ayurveda includes various treatment methods, such as dietary changes, massages, and relaxation techniques.
• 😟 Rajiv Kedar is skeptical but willing to try leech therapy after unsuccessful Western medical treatments.
• 🧪 Dr. Satchin believes that toxins in the blood are the root cause of many ailments, including skin conditions.
• 👍 Leeches are thought to naturally remove impurities from the blood, promoting healing.
• 🔶 Ayurvedic doctors prepare leeches by coating them in turmeric to encourage the expulsion of toxic blood.
• 🩺 The leech therapy method is considered natural and claims to pose minimal harm to patients.
• 💬 Dr. Satchin is optimistic that faith in leech therapy will help preserve this traditional treatment.

Q & A

Who is Dr. Satchin Mandar?

Dr. Satchin Mandar is a traditional healer practicing Ayurveda, who uses leeches as part of his treatment methods.

What chronic skin condition is Rajiv Kedar suffering from?

Rajiv Kedar suffers from psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes red, flaky patches of skin.

Why do many Indians choose traditional healers over modern medical clinics?

Millions of Indians prefer traditional healers like Dr. Satchin because of their belief in holistic approaches and cultural practices, despite the availability of modern medical options.

What is the Ayurvedic perspective on health and illness?

Ayurveda views health as a balance of the body's systems and believes that many ailments stem from toxins or impurities in the blood.

What is the purpose of using leeches in Ayurvedic treatment?

Leeches are used to remove toxic blood from the body, which is thought to help alleviate various health conditions, including psoriasis.

How do leeches help in the treatment of skin conditions according to Dr. Satchin?

Dr. Satchin believes that leeches can remove blood impurities, thereby potentially alleviating skin conditions like psoriasis.

What is the method used by Ayurvedic doctors to prepare leeches for treatment?

Ayurvedic doctors douse their leeches in turmeric powder to encourage them to expel toxic blood, which they cannot digest.

What is Rajiv's attitude towards the use of leeches?

Despite being unsettled by the idea, Rajiv is convinced that the leeches will provide relief for his psoriasis after other treatments have failed.

What is the general public perception of leech therapy?

Leech therapy is often considered taboo and viewed with skepticism by many people, with some regarding it as madness.

How does Dr. Satchin feel about the future of leech therapy?

Dr. Satchin is optimistic that faith in leeches will continue, as embracing this taboo treatment helps keep ancient Ayurvedic practices alive.