3300. Formerly leeches were supplied by Sweden, but latterly most of the leeches are procured from France, where they are now becoming scarce.
3301. When leeches are applied to a part, it should be thoroughly freed from down or hair by shaving, and all liniments, &c., carefully and effectually cleaned away by washing.
3302. If the leech is hungry it will soon bite, but sometimes great difficulty is experienced in getting them to fasten on. When this is the case, roll the leech into a little porter, or moisten the surface with a little blood, or milk, or sugar and water.
3303. Leeches may be applied by holding them over the part with a piece of linen cloth or by means of an inverted glass, under which they must be placed.
3304. When applied to the gums, care should be taken to use a leech glass, as they are apt to creep down the patient's throat; a large swan's quill will answer the purpose of a leech glass.