What is the most effective way to stop leeches in Sinharaja?
I am terrified of leeches. Do the leech socks actually work or should I use tobacco water and salt as the locals suggest.
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2 Answers from travellers
Leech socks are the most effective physical barrier. They are long white socks made of thick cotton that you pull over your trousers. Because they are white, you can easily spot a leech crawling up and flick it off before it reaches your skin. Combining this with a spray of Siddhalepa balm or even Dettol around your ankles makes you virtually leech proof.
Dont panic if one bites you. They are harmless and dont carry diseases. Just apply a bit of salt or lime juice and they will drop off immediately. If you pull them off forcefully, the wound will bleed more because of the anticoagulant they inject.
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