Research finds evidence of psychoactive substance use by ancient Indonesian foragers
The Guardian · September 9, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
Analysis of two skeletons from Sulawesi, Indonesia, revealed significant tooth wear and traces of a psychoactive substance. The findings suggest the individuals may have routinely consumed hard, abrasive betel nuts approximately 25,000 years ago.
Why it matters
This research contributes to the understanding of early human behaviors and the use of psychoactive substances.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you study anthropology or archaeology?
This research provides crucial insights into early human behaviors and the historical use of psychoactive substances, which could inform your understanding of cultural practices in ancient societies.
How does this story affect you if you are interested in the history of human consumption of psychoactive substances?
The findings suggest that the use of mind-altering substances dates back thousands of years, potentially reshaping your perspective on the evolution of human interactions with such substances.
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