What did woman do during menstruation in the old days?

1. Isolation:

Many cultures practiced isolating women during menstruation, considering them to be ritually impure. They were often sequestered in separate huts or secluded areas to prevent contact with others, especially men, and were barred from participating in social and religious activities.

2. Ritual cleansings:

Women would frequently engage in purifying rituals, including bathing or immersing themselves in natural water bodies, to cleanse both physically and symbolically. These practices were believed to remove the 'impurities' associated with menstruation.

3. Home remedies and herbal treatments:

Women used various natural remedies and herbal concoctions to alleviate discomfort associated with menstruation. These remedies included drinking herbal tea, applying warm compresses, and using specific plants or herbs believed to have medicinal properties.

4. Special diets:

Dietary changes were also common during menstruation. Some cultures encouraged women to consume specific foods believed to promote well-being, while others restricted certain food items thought to aggravate symptoms.

5. Abstinence from certain activities:

During menstruation, women were often discouraged from engaging in strenuous physical activities, heavy lifting, or sexual intercourse. These restrictions aimed to protect women from potential harm and ensure their physical and emotional well-being.

6. Cultural symbolism and beliefs:

The perception of menstruation varied across cultures and periods, ranging from regarding it as a natural and sacred process to perceiving it as a time of weakness or taboo. Cultural beliefs often shaped the rituals, practices, and attitudes surrounding menstruation.

7. Lack of medical knowledge:

In many historical contexts, there was limited medical understanding of menstruation. This led to various myths, misconceptions, and a lack of support and resources for women to navigate their menstrual cycles effectively.

8. Menstrual huts or lodges:

In some indigenous cultures, women would retreat to menstrual huts or lodges during their periods. These designated spaces provided privacy, comfort, and a community of support among menstruating women.