Why Do Humans Menstruate?

Menstruation is often treated like an inconvenience. But in evolutionary terms, it’s rare and remarkable. Out of thousands of mammal species, only a handful—including humans—menstruate. Most others reabsorb their uterine lining if no pregnancy occurs. So why do humans bleed? And how can plant allies support this ancient, sacred rhythm? Let’s begin with the science—and then root it back in the body, the land, and the plants who walk with us. Humans evolved to build a nutrient-rich uterine lining before fertilization, every cycle. This anticipates pregnancy but costs energy. If no embryo implants, the body sheds the lining—that’s menstruation. This cycle of build, assess, and release is one of the most precise metabolic investments the body makes. Menstruation may serve as a flush for bacteria or viruses introduced through sex.

The bleeding phase acts as an inflammatory cleanse, mobilizing white blood cells and protective cytokines. Because human embryos are deeply invasive, the endometrium acts as a gatekeeper. She decides who gets in. This monthly rebuild gives the uterus a chance to screen for quality and readiness. Menstruation isn’t dirty, wasteful, or shameful. It’s a sign that your body is intelligent, responsive, and cycling through renewal. Herbal support for menstruation doesn’t mean “fixing” a broken process. It means: Let’s walk through the phases of the cycle and meet the herbs that match them. Focus: Release, inward reflection, gentle circulation This is the body’s reset.

The endometrial lining is released, and the hormonal tide is low. Energy may dip.

The womb contracts to shed. Herbal allies: Tip: Make a warm infusion or sitz bath. Invite stillness. Focus: Growth, creativity, new beginning Estrogen rises. Energy often lifts.

The body prepares an egg, and the uterine lining begins to rebuild. Herbal allies: Tip: Start light movement and creative projects. This is an upward flow time. Focus: Radiance, magnetism, peak vitality Estrogen peaks.

The egg is released. Libido and confidence may rise. Herbal allies: Tip: Shine. Connect. Your senses and energy are attuned for outward engagement. Focus: Integration, nesting, discernment Progesterone takes over. If no pregnancy occurs, hormone levels drop, leading toward release again. Herbal allies: Tip: Avoid overcommitment. Prioritize boundaries and warm nourishment. Menstruation isn’t a flaw to medicate away—it’s a biological intelligence. It speaks the same language as the moon, the tides, and the life-death-life cycle of plants. Supporting your cycle with herbs is not about overriding nature. It’s about remembering how to work with it. Ezza Valdez is an explorer with a creative passion for "DIY" projects. Growing up in the Philippines, she rallied her friends to adventures in outdoor cooking (using milk cans as pots), paper doll theatrics, and making their own musical instruments for caroling. "You can make beautiful music with a wire and a ton of bottle caps". A veteran of the IT industry with an academic background in Computer Science and Technology, she is currently a student at David Winston's Herbal Studies 2-year program.

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