Strange but Still Around: Unusual Medical Therapies That Persist Today!
Strange but Still Around: Unusual Medical Therapies That Persist Today!
In a world driven by scientific breakthroughs, evidence-based medicine, and cutting-edge technology, you'd think the medical field would have left all its quirky practices in the past. But not quite. While modern medicine has largely moved away from leeches, bloodletting, and potions, a handful of bizarre (yet oddly effective—or at least still practiced) therapies have stubbornly persisted into the 21st century.
Whether due to cultural tradition, anecdotal success, or just plain mystery, here are some of the strangest therapies still in use around the world today.
1. Leech Therapy (Hirudotherapy)
Yes, leeches are still sucking blood in hospitals—and for good reason.
Leech therapy, once a medieval mainstay, has made a surprising comeback in modern microsurgery. These slimy creatures are used to help restore blood circulation in reattached fingers, ears, and other tissue grafts. Their saliva contains anticoagulants and enzymes that help reduce clotting and promote healing.
Where it's used: Plastic and reconstructive surgery centers worldwide
Strange factor: Moderate-high (because... leeches)
Science-backed? Yes, especially in post-surgical blood flow management
2. Maggot Debridement Therapy
Not for the squeamish: doctors sometimes use live, disinfected maggots to clean non-healing wounds.
These larvae feed only on dead tissue, leaving healthy skin untouched, and their secretions have antimicrobial properties. They're surprisingly effective in cases of chronic ulcers and diabetic foot wounds where traditional cleaning fails.
Where it's used: Wound care clinics, especially for chronic ulcers
Strange factor: High
Science-backed? Absolutely—FDA-approved since 2004
3. Bee Venom Therapy (Apitherapy)
Bee stings as medicine? It’s a thing.
Bee venom therapy involves intentionally administering bee stings or injections of purified venom to treat conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. The venom contains compounds thought to have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.
Where it's used: Alternative medicine clinics, especially in Asia and Eastern Europe
Strange factor: High (because you're literally being stung)
Science-backed? Mixed—some studies suggest benefits, others warn of dangerous allergic reactions
4. Urine Therapy
This ancient remedy involves using one’s own urine to treat a variety of ailments. It's consumed, applied topically, or even used as an eye or ear rinse (yes, really).
Proponents claim it boosts the immune system, detoxifies the body, and treats skin conditions. The scientific evidence? Almost entirely lacking—but some still swear by it.
Where it's used: Fringe wellness circles worldwide
Strange factor: Off the charts
Science-backed? Not really, and potentially unsafe
5. Trepanation (Yes, Hole-in-the-Skull Drilling)
Trepanation—drilling a hole into the skull—was used in ancient times to release “evil spirits.” Surprisingly, it hasn’t completely disappeared.
While it's no longer done for spiritual purposes, some advocates claim self-trepanation enhances brain function and consciousness (though this is not medically endorsed). In modern medicine, a version of trepanation is used in emergency neurosurgery to relieve pressure after head trauma or stroke—called a craniectomy.
Where it's used: Emergency surgery (medical version); fringe groups (non-medical version)
Strange factor: Extremely high
Science-backed? Only in proper medical settings—otherwise, not recommended
6. Cupping Therapy
This ancient Chinese and Middle Eastern practice uses heated cups placed on the skin to create suction. It's claimed to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and improve energy flow.
It surged in popularity after Olympic athletes (like Michael Phelps) were seen with those telltale circular bruises.
Where it's used: Traditional medicine and some sports therapy clinics
Strange factor: Moderate (thanks to celebrity endorsements)
Science-backed? Limited, mostly anecdotal
7. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Often portrayed in films as barbaric, ECT still plays a critical role in modern psychiatry.
It's used to treat severe depression, treatment-resistant mood disorders, and catatonia. Though the idea of using electric shocks on the brain sounds terrifying, today’s version is highly controlled, performed under anesthesia, and often life-saving.
Where it's used: Psychiatric hospitals around the world
Strange factor: Moderate (due to stigma)
Science-backed? Strong—endorsed by major psychiatric organizations
Final Thoughts:
Strange doesn't always mean ineffective. Many of these therapies walk a blurry line between science and tradition, skepticism and success. Some are medically validated; others survive on anecdote and curiosity. As medicine continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: healing takes many forms—and some of them are really, really weird.
Would you try any of these? Let us know in the comments. Or maybe not the urine one. 😅