The World’s Greatest Mystery: The Over 2,000-Year-Old Mummy of Lady Xin Zhui Still Has Soft Skin

The World’s Greatest Mystery: The Over 2,000-Year-Old Mummy of Lady Xin Zhui Still Has Soft Skin

In 1971, when workers in the city of Changsha, Hunan Province, China, were digging the ground, they unexpectedly discovered a magnificent tomb. After investigation, scientists determined that it was the tomb of a woman named Xin Zhui, also known as Lady Dai. Mrs. Xin Zhui was identified as having passed away in 163 BCE, meaning her mummified remains were over 2,000 years old. Such a long period is significant, as human bodies typically decompose over time, even when preserved with chemicals or under specific temperatures.

However, what astonished scientists was that the skin of this woman remained fairly soft, her hair was still dark and thick, and even the joints of her limbs could move normally. What’s even more remarkable is that blood was found flowing in her veins – researchers determined it to be blood type A. Since then, the remains of Mrs. Xin Zhui have been widely recognized as the best-preserved mummy in history and one of the most mysterious mummies in the world.

Xin Zhui passed away around the age of 50, in the year 168 or 169 BC.

The most peculiar mummy in the world

The Mystery of Lady Dai's Preserved Mummy | Amusing Planet

The coffin, resembling a funnel, of Lady Xin Zhui contained over 1,400 precious artifacts found alongside her remains. These included a wardrobe with 100 sets of silk garments, 182 valuable lacquerware items, cosmetics, and personal hygiene items, along with 162 small wooden figurines representing attendants. Additionally, there was a prepared meal on a tray for Xin Zhui to enjoy in the afterlife.

But what astonished scientists the most was the condition of Lady Xin’s body when discovered, as it resembled that of someone who had just passed away. Her skin remained soft, retaining moisture and a certain elasticity, akin to that of a living person. Her hair remained dark, with even her eyelashes, eyebrows, and nose hair intact.

Researchers found that all of Lady Xin’s organs were preserved, with her veins still containing flowing blood. These veins also showed blood clots, revealing that the primary cause of Lady Xin’s death was a heart attack. A range of other ailments was also found throughout Xin Zhui’s body, including gallstones, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and liver disease.
2000 Year Old Living Mummy of China- Lady Dai - lifeberrys.com
Adding to the astonishment, medical researchers also found 138 undigested melon seeds in Lady Xin’s stomach and intestines. Since such seeds typically take about an hour to digest completely, it is entirely plausible to assume that the melon was Lady Xin’s last meal. She likely consumed it only a few minutes before experiencing a heart attack and passing away.

How was this mummy preserved so well?

Upon discovery, scientists were also astonished by the secrecy and intricacy in the construction of the tomb. Located over 12 meters deep underground, Xin Zhui was wrapped in 20 layers of silk garments, placed within a coffin sealed with 4 layers. To prevent air and water infiltration, her tomb was filled with charcoal and tightly sealed with several feet of thick clay soil on top. This airtight and watertight environment effectively eradicated any potential bacteria inside and helped preserve the body.

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Archaeologists discovered traces of mercury in Xin Zhui’s coffin, suggesting that the toxic metal might have been used as an antibacterial agent. Additionally, her body was found immersed in an unknown liquid with slightly acidic properties, which likely inhibited bacterial growth. Some speculate that this liquid could be bodily fluids rather than a deliberate preservative poured into the coffin.

It is known that researchers conducted a postmortem examination in December 1972. The results indicated that she had died at the age of 50. However, she outlived both her husband and son, as they were found buried in the same tomb alongside her. Nevertheless, their skeletons had decayed over time and were not as well preserved as hers.

The preservation of Lady Xin Zhui’s mummy against decay remains a mystery. This has presented modern scientists with a series of challenging questions. Finding the answers to these questions would undoubtedly yield immense value.

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Xin Zhui được cho là đã sống một lối sống xa hoa, tận hưởng những đặc quyền về sự giàu có và địa vị.

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