In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have found chemical traces of betel nut chewing in 4,000-year-old teeth from a Bronze Age burial in Thailand — the earliest direct evidence of psychoactive plant use in Southeast Asia. By analyzing hardened dental plaque, researchers uncovered compounds linked to betel nut, a stimulant that boosts alertness and euphoria. Ancient […]



Summary

Scientists have found the earliest direct evidence of psychoactive plant use in Southeast Asia by identifying betel nut traces in 4,000-year-old teeth from a Bronze Age burial in Thailand. Analyzing dental plaque, researchers discovered compounds linked to betel nut, a stimulant known for promoting alertness and euphoria. This groundbreaking discovery pushes back the known timeline for betel nut consumption in the region, offering new insights into the cultural practices and potential trade networks of ancient Southeast Asian societies.

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