The way ancient people went to the toilet and wiped their buttocks varied depending on the era and region. In ancient times, due to the scarcity and high cost of paper, people usually did not use paper to wipe it. Instead, they have adopted a variety of alternative items to meet this daily need.
In ancient China, the earliest use of plant ash may have been. Grass ash is not only hygroscopic, but also bactericidal. After going to the toilet, people sprinkle grass ash on their buttocks and pat off the excess ashes with their hands. It's simple, but it's pretty good.
With the popularity of silk and cloth, some wealthy families began to use silk or muslin as wiping supplies. These fabrics are soft and absorbent, making them more comfortable to use than plant ash. However, due to the high cost of silk and muslin**, it was still difficult for ordinary people to afford.
In some areas, people also use other alternatives such as bamboo, stone, leaves, etc. Although these items were not hygienic, they were a helpless move at the time.
It is worth mentioning that ancient Indians used an item called a "toilet chip" to wipe their buttocks. A toilet chip is a long strip made of bamboo, wood, or ivory, similar to a modern tampon. When people go to the toilet, they use the toilet chip to dip it in clean water or salt water to wipe it off. Although this method is hygienic, it requires a certain amount of skill and patience to use.
With the passage of time, paper gradually became popular and became the main item for people to wipe their buttocks. However, even with the advent of paper, people in different regions still maintain their own unique way of wiping due to differences in culture and customs. For example, in Japan, people still use a special type of paper called washi to wipe their buttocks.
In general, the way ancient people went to the toilet and wiped their buttocks varied depending on the era and region. From plant ash to silk and muslin to toilet chips and paper, these different wiping methods reflect the socio-cultural and economic conditions of the time. While these methods may seem strange in modern times, they were effective measures to meet everyday needs at the time.