History of Stimulant and Psychoactive Substance Consumption Dates Back Thousands of Years
Biomolecular analyses of ancient human remains found in Indonesia have revealed that the stimulant betel nut was consumed in very ancient times.
In a scientific study led by Australia-based Griffith University, traces of betel nut, which possesses stimulant and psychoactive properties, were found in the skeletal remains of early hunter-gatherers in Indonesia.
Analyses Conducted on Ancient Teeth
Researchers conducted biomolecular examinations on two human teeth belonging to these communities.
As a result of the examinations, it was determined that one of the skeletal remains dates back between 25,000 and 16,000 years, and the other between 7,600 and 6,300 years.
Evidence of Betel Nut Consumption
Scientists identified deep and circular grooves on both tooth samples.
It was determined that these distinct wear marks were caused by the betel nut being sucked in the mouth for extended periods.
Oldest Evidence Worldwide
Adam Brumm, a member of the research team, stated that this finding could qualify as the oldest known evidence of drug use on a global scale.
Brumm also conveyed that betel nut is not very well known in Western societies, yet it stands as the fourth most commonly used psychoactive substance in the world after alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine.