Ancient Moroccan Cave Reveals Early Human Use of Medicinal Plants

1 min read
Source: National Geographic
Ancient Moroccan Cave Reveals Early Human Use of Medicinal Plants
Photo: National Geographic
TL;DR

Researchers have discovered 15,000-year-old Ephedra seed cones in a burial site in Morocco, suggesting early humans used plants as drugs. The Ephedra plant, known for its stimulant properties, was likely consumed during burial rituals by the Iberomaurusians, indicating a sophisticated understanding of its effects. This finding highlights the significant role of plants in prehistoric life, predating agriculture, and suggests that ancient humans used plants for medicinal and ritualistic purposes.

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