Following our recent online circle dedicated to rituals for the different phases of the menstrual cycle, I received numerous questions about working with womb blood (Recording here).
This blog will explore studies examining menstrual blood, ancient healing and ritual practices, and ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with this powerful essence.
As a special gift for my readers, I'm offering a free menstrual meditation code available until October 11, 2024. Use code BLEED to access this resource. CLICK here
What is science telling us?
See below for links and references.
Source of Stem Cells: Menstrual blood contains multipotential stem cells (MenSCs) that can differentiate into various cell types, such as bone, cartilage, fat, and nerve cells. This discovery could revolutionize regenerative medicine.
Non-Invasive Collection: The process of collecting menstrual blood is non-invasive, making it a readily accessible and renewable resource for stem cell research. This opens new avenues for advancements in tissue engineering.
Therapeutic Potential: Researchers are optimistic that stem cells from menstrual blood may lead to treatments for diseases, including heart disease and neurodegenerative conditions.
Diagnostics Insights: Menstrual blood contains endometrial cells, immune cells, and microbial signatures, providing valuable health insights. It is being explored as a non-intrusive diagnostic tool for conditions such as endometriosis, diabetes, and cervical cancer.
Wound Healing Properties: Studies indicate that the unique composition of menstrual fluid supports scar-free wound healing. Research shows that it can accelerate skin wound repair significantly better than regular blood plasma.
Regenerative Applications: Stem cells in menstrual blood have demonstrated the ability to repair damaged tissues, including the endometrium, and may enhance fertility and skin repair.
The article from ScienceDaily titled "Menstrual Blood: A Valuable Source of Multipotential Stem Cells?" discusses the discovery of stem cells in menstrual blood, known as MenSCs. These stem cells have the potential to differentiate into multiple cell types, such as bone, cartilage, fat, and nerve cells. The non-invasive collection process makes menstrual blood a readily accessible and renewable source for stem cell research, opening up possibilities for advancements in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Researchers are hopeful that these cells may offer treatments for various diseases, including heart disease and neurodegenerative conditions.
You can read the full article here.
The article titled "Long Overlooked, Menstrual Blood Is a Treasure Trove for Science" emphasizes that menstrual blood is rich in stem cells with regenerative potential. These cells are being explored for their use in treating conditions like autoimmune diseases and aiding tissue regeneration. Historically disregarded, menstrual blood is now considered an easily accessible and valuable resource for medical research, paving the way for new therapeutic advancements.
Read more here.
The article titled "Potential of Menstrual Blood for Health Diagnostics: A Review" delves into how menstrual blood, often overlooked, contains endometrial cells, immune cells, and microbial signatures that provide health insights. You may have heard of the menstrual cycle as a "5th vital sign" for women's health. This research goes further, suggesting that menstrual blood can be a non-intrusive diagnostic tool for conditions like endometriosis, diabetes, and cervical cancer, revolutionizing personalized healthcare.
Read more here.
Dr. Evans' research explores how menstrual fluid's unique composition aids skin repair. Her team found that menstrual blood, which supports scar-free wound healing in the womb, can accelerate healing in skin wounds, with 100% repair in 24 hours compared to 40% using regular blood plasma. The complex protein makeup of menstrual fluid promotes cell migration, aiding chronic wound healing, such as diabetic or pressure ulcers. This discovery opens new possibilities for using menstrual fluid in skin repair therapies.
You can read the full article here.
The article titled "Menstrual Blood Stem Cell Research Could Yield New Therapies" discusses the regenerative potential of stem cells found in menstrual blood. These cells have demonstrated the ability to repair damaged tissues, such as the endometrium, and may improve fertility.
Read more here.
What's inside?
Endometrial Cells: Shed from the uterine lining
Blood Components: Menstrual blood contains red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, similar to regular blood.
Hormones: Levels of estrogen and progesterone in menstrual blood.
Proteins: Various proteins are present, including clotting factors and signaling proteins.
Microbial Signatures: Menstrual blood offers insights into the vaginal microbiome.
Metabolites: It contains metabolites such as glucose, lactate, and fatty acids.
Immune Cells: Includes macrophages and lymphocytes.
MicroRNA: Small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression.
Ancient Practices Surrounding Menstrual Blood
Two women are shown dancing (and presumably menstruating) in this rock engraving from the Upper Yule River in Western Australia.
Many ancient cultures had unique perspectives on menstrual blood, often attributing it to sacred and powerful qualities. Here are some examples:
Mayan Culture: In Mayan mythology, menstruation was linked to the punishment of the Moon Goddess for disobeying social rules. It was believed that her menstrual blood transformed into various creatures, including snakes and insects, associated with black magic. Despite this, it was also thought that menstrual blood could turn into medicinal plants, illustrating a duality in its perceived power(Medical Daily).
Ancient Egypt: The Ebers Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian medical text, suggested that vaginal bleeding was used as an ingredient in certain medicinal practices. This indicates a recognition of menstrual blood's potential healing properties(Medical Daily).
Indigenous Cultures: In many Indigenous communities, menstruating women were considered sacred, with menstrual blood believed to hold special powers for healing and protection. For example, the Cherokee regarded menstrual blood as a source of feminine strength, capable of destroying enemies(Wikipedia).
Roman Beliefs: Pliny the Elder noted that a menstruating woman could ward off hailstorms and lightning. In some rituals, she was believed to possess the ability to protect crops from pests, further emphasizing the mystical aspects attributed to menstruation in ancient Roman culture(Wikipedia).
Aboriginal Australians: The Rainbow Snake, a significant figure in Aboriginal mythology, symbolizes the synchronization of menstrual cycles with lunar and seasonal rhythms. This connection illustrates a cultural understanding of the cyclical nature of life and fertility(Wikipedia).
Ritual Practices with Menstrual Blood and Moon Energy
The Mayan moon goddess, associated with womanhood and fertility, is pictured here with a rabbit.
Blood and Moon Masks: Using menstrual blood in face masks can nourish the skin.
Bathing Rituals: Add menstrual blood to baths to create a cleansing and rejuvenating experience.
Body Massage: Mix menstrual blood with oils for a healing body massage. Focus on relaxation and connecting with the cyclical nature of the body, nurturing feminine energy during the process.
Healing Teeth: Some practitioners use menstrual blood in oral health practices, such as diluted rinses or natural toothpaste. This is believed to harness its potential healing properties.
Sips and Tonics: Create tonics or sips with menstrual blood, combined with herbs or honey, to explore perceived health benefits. Always approach this practice with caution and awareness of individual health needs.
Womb Blessing Rituals: Honor the womb and its cycles by using menstrual blood as an offering or symbol of fertility.
Altar Offerings: Create a sacred space with menstrual blood as an offering to honor feminine energy and the cycles of life.
Candle Rituals: Anoint candles with menstrual blood to enhance intention-setting for manifestation or healing.
Crafting with Menstrual Blood: Engage in creative expression by using menstrual blood in art, writing, or crafting talismans. \
Offering to Earth: As a way to honor the earth and its cycles, use menstrual blood as an offering by burying it in the ground or placing it in nature. This act symbolizes gratitude for the earth's nourishment and aligns with the cycles of life and fertility.
*When using menstrual blood for rituals or offerings, it's important to check for signs of infection, such as unusual odor, discoloration, or discomfort. Before consuming or applying it to the skin, inspect the blood thoroughly. If any infection signs are present, avoid use and welcome in healing support.
Our menstrual blood is often referred to as the "fifth vital sign," as it carries messages from within our bodies. If you notice feelings of disgust or aversion towards it, this could indicate imbalances in your body or subconscious beliefs stemming from past patriarchal or religious influences. It's an invitation to deepen your connection with this part of yourself. Begin by exploring through looking, touching, smelling, and perhaps even tasting if you feel comfortable—it's your journey, and this connection can be a powerful ally in understanding yourself and your cycles
Before I say goodbye here are the next online circles (note two different times) - DONATION BASED ❤️
Thank you for reading, keep this post saved in case you are called to share this information or explore more deeply.
Love Danielle
xx
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