Russia breeds ten times more leeches for medical and beauty use than the rest of the world combined, with the majority being born in the International Leech Centre just outside of Moscow. In fact the company has two million of the creepy creatures which they sell for £1 each – and they’re in high demand. 

Leeches have medical value as they’ve got three sets of jaws with 90 teeth and give off a natural anesthetic that also prevents the blood from clotting. One Russian doctor has even insisted that leeches can cure any disease or illness.

They’re also used as a beauty booster at the Kimberlyland Academy of Beauty in Moscow where customers let leeches suck their blood in the hopes of getting younger, healthy looking skin. The craze has yet to catch on here.

Would you use leeches? Vote on our leeches poll and let us know.