Mongols drank horse blood primarily out of desperation, using it as a vital source of sustenance during challenging times when other provisions were scarce.
A Survival Strategy in Times of Desperation
The practice of drinking horse blood by the Mongols was not a casual dietary choice but a crucial survival tactic, especially during long journeys, military campaigns, or periods of famine. When food and water supplies ran low, their horses and camels served as a direct and immediate source of nourishment.
How the Practice Was Carried Out
To obtain the blood without harming the animal significantly, Mongols would employ a careful method:
- They would slit a minor vein in the horse's (or camel's) neck.
- The blood was then drained into a cup.
- It could be consumed either plain or mixed with other available liquids like milk or water to make it more palatable or to extend its volume.
This method ensured that the animal remained capable of carrying out its duties, highlighting the Mongols' pragmatic relationship with their livestock.
Nutritional Value and Historical Context
Horse blood provided essential nutrients, including protein, iron, and other minerals, which were critical for sustaining energy and health for warriors on the move. This practice allowed them to maintain their rapid mobility and endurance, a key factor in their military success, even when far from established supply lines.
Historically, this habit of consuming animal blood, particularly from their mounts, often shocked the Mongols' enemies and foreign observers. For many cultures, the idea of drinking blood was taboo, but for the nomadic Mongols, it was a practical and necessary adaptation to their harsh environment and nomadic lifestyle.
Key Aspects of Mongol Blood Consumption
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Reason | Survival and sustenance during periods of desperation (e.g., long journeys, resource scarcity). |
| Animals Used | Primarily horses, but the practice also extended to camels. |
| Method | Slitting a minor vein in the animal's neck to extract blood without severe injury. |
| Consumption | Drank plain or mixed with milk or water. |
| Perception | Often shocked and repulsed their enemies and other cultures, who viewed it as barbaric or unusual. |
For further details on the significance of horses in Mongol culture, you can refer to resources like the Horse culture in Mongolia - Wikipedia.
