What methods of contraception were used in the ancient palace?

In ancient times, not only was the feudal system sound and the hierarchy strict, but there were also strict penalties for matters of debauchery in the harem. Even the concubines in the harem need to take contraceptive measures when necessary. This involves the harem and the previous dynasty, and the relationship is very complicated. However, the contraceptive measures in ancient times were still relatively backward, and even affected the health and safety of women. So what were the contraceptive methods used in the ancient palace?

Wash with "Saffron Wash".

There was a record in historical materials that saffron was the most effective contraceptive secret in the palace. If the emperor did not like a favored palace maid, he would ask the eunuchs to hang the maid upside down and wash her lower body with liquid made from crushed saffron. It is said that this can cleanse the semen in the palace maid's body completely.

Use a condom.

Early "condoms" were made from sheep intestines or pig bladders. According to historical records, the "condoms" used in Western medieval courts were animal intestine casings, and they also had a nice name, called "Dutch caps."

It was introduced to China after the Ming and Qing Dynasties and became a commonly used contraceptive in the Chinese court. The ancients also used fish bladders as "condoms". Among the museum's collection are condoms made from sheep intestines by ancient people, which are somewhat similar to the prototype of modern condoms.

Drink "mercury".

Although drinking mercury as a contraceptive method is effective, it is very harmful to the body. In the palace, a small amount of mercury would be put into the tea drunk by concubines or palace maids who needed contraception. This is neither harmful to the body nor very effective.

Drink "cold medicine".

"Liangyao" is a contraceptive decoction containing musk. This decoction not only has the effect of contraception, but also has the function of inducing abortion. After Cixi entered the palace and was favored by Emperor Xianfeng, her first pregnancy was aborted by someone using musk.

Use the "Lao Du Patch".

This secret recipe is to put musk on a woman's belly button to achieve the function of contraception. There are historical records of the two sisters Zhao Feiyan and Zhao Hede in the Han Dynasty taking such contraceptive measures. However, the secret recipe of this "Lao Du Tie" has been lost.

The above article gives a clear introduction to the methods of contraception in the ancient palace, and I believe everyone has a general understanding of it. Whether it is taking medicine or using external contraceptive methods, it is obvious that it will pose a significant threat to women's health. Over time, they may even lose their basic fertility. It can be said that these methods are still very cruel.