July 17, 2026

Ep.19 - Leech Jar

Ep.19 - Leech Jar

In this episode, we’re unearthing the history of medicinal leeches. From rural swamps to 24 hour leech shops, the leech industry grew and grew across Europe.

In this episode, we’re unearthing the history of medicinal leeches. From rural swamps to 24 hour leech shops, the leech industry grew and grew across Europe. There were many risks to the use of leeches - from them slithering up your behind to giving you syphilis. One top tip was to not use weird smelling leeches, another was to always squeeze them to empty them out before use.


The Team:

Dr Charlotte Holmes (@_CCHolmes_) - Editor/Producer

Rachel Forrest - Researcher/Presenter

Dr Daisy Cunynghame - Researcher/Presenter

Dr Sarah Hayward - Editor/Producer

Dr Kate So - Editor/Producer

Elizabeth Van Trampe - Editor/Producer


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