In ancient China, patriarchal and feudal norms limited women’s control over reproduction, forcing many to endure risky contraceptive methods.

According to the Classic of Mountains and Seas , one of the earliest known contraceptives in China was a herb called Gurong .

Its taste was extremely bitter, its leaves resembled orchids and its roots were similar to those of the balloon flower.

During the pre-Qin period (2100–221), people believed that consuming Gurong , a plant that only bloomed but did not bear fruit, could prevent pregnancy, though modern science has not confirmed this.

Another ancient medical text, Essential Formulas Worth a Thousand in Gold for Emergencies , also mentions drinking boiled water made from purple jasmine roots, said to induce abortion.