Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in southern Siberia, uncovering the earliest evidence of cannabis use for psychoactive purposes. The find dates back almost 3,000 years to a monumental elite tomb in the Uyuk Valley. Researchers from the University of Bern, Switzerland, led by Dr. Gino Caspari, have been excavating the site since 2017 and have confirmed that the tomb dates back to the earliest Scythian period, around 2,800 years ago.
The tomb, which contains the remains of high-status individuals, yielded a surprising discovery – small black dots that were later identified as cannabis seeds. The team recovered over 1,400 seeds and used radiocarbon dating to determine that they were deposited around 2,800 years ago. Additionally, preserved human hair was found in the tomb, which was tested using a mass spectrometer.
The discovery is significant because it provides concrete evidence of prehistoric cannabis use, dispelling speculation and myths surrounding the topic. The Scythians, known for their expertise in horseback riding and exquisite goldwork, were nomadic and skilled in shooting from horseback. The finding of cannabis seeds and human hair in the tomb suggests that they may have used the plant for psychoactive purposes.
The preservation of plant remains over 3,000 years old is extremely rare, making this discovery all the more remarkable. The research team’s findings have shed new light on the history of cannabis use and its significance in ancient cultures.
