Throughout history, human beings have used drugs to alter their consciousness and their sensory perception. From ancient times to the present day, the use of substances neurotropic altering the mind was an integral part of human culture and society. Recent archaeological discoveries have enlightened the use of drugs in the prehistoric era, suggesting that they may have played a significant role in the development of human civilization as we know it today. The compound psychedelic in the Psilocybe, appeared about 65 million years ago. In this article, let us dive into the fascinating world of the prehistoric use of drugs and explore the potential impact it may have had on our ancestors. 🌿🍄✨
Global use 😎
Spain and Chile: the caves of Càrritx
In the caves of Càrritx on the Spanish island of Menorca, a funeral site dating from the late Bronze Age was discovered. The remains of hundreds of human skeletons have been found, some in containers sealed with lids decorated with circle paintings. Hair analysis of these remains revealed concentrations high of substances altering consciousness, probably derived from plants, such as Atropine and the scopolamine. These substances cause hallucinations and changes in sensory perception. 😮
Peru: Inca civilization
In the mountains of the Andes in southern Peru, mummified remains of children sacrificed by the Inca civilization were discovered. L'hair analysis and nails of these mummies revealed significant quantities of cocaine, of cocaethylene and mescaline. These substances have psychoactive effects, causing hallucinations, euphoria and an alteration of visual perception. 😲
Bolivia: The rituals of the highlands
In the highlands in the southwest of Bolivia, ritual containers dating from around 1000 AD were discovered. These containers contained leftovers of compounds such as the Harmin and the Dmt. Harmin is in the plant of Ayahuasca, which, combined with DMT, causes visual hallucinations and euphoria. These substances were consumed by food or drink during worship of worship and healing. 🌿
Israel: the period of the first temple
Archaeological evidence of drug use has also been found in Israel. Organic matter residues containing active compounds from the plant of cannabis were discovered on an altar in a temple dating from the period of the first temple in the kingdom of Judah. These compounds are responsible for the psycho-physiological effects of cannabis. 🏛️😌
The theory of "smashed monkey"
The hypothesis called "the theory of the smashed monkey" was proposed by the biologist and author Terrance McKenna. According to this theory, mushrooms hallucinogenic containing psilocybin could have acted as a catalyst for the development of human society. McKenna suggests that the first humans, migrating from Africa, arrived in regions where psychoactive mushrooms pushed and consumed them. There psilocybin links to receiver of the serotonin in the brain, provoking alterations of sensory perception, emotions and consciousness. 🍄✨
Psychedelic substances and evolution
Recent research has explored the potential evolutionary advantages of substances consumption psychedelic. Although these substances do not alter the genetic features, they may have influence of the patterns behavioral And social who have given survival advantages to the groups that adopted them. For example, the psilocybin can help individuals to face the stress and at anxiety, encourage the flexibility of thought, and to favor Empathy and social connections. 🍄✨
The importance of social ties 😊
Humans are fundamentally social beings, and our ability to create and maintain social ties has played a crucial role in our survival throughout history. The use of substances altering consciousness, in particular psychedelic, could have favored the development of complex social relations, cooperation and rich forms of human communication. By encouraging empathy, by strengthening social ties and promoting a feeling of unity, these substances may have contributed to the creation of common values, group decision-making and the improvement of oral communication. 🌐💬
The renewal of research and medical use
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the research and use of substances altering consciousness for medical and mental health. Studies have shown that, used in a cautious manner and under controlled conditions, these substances can provide advantages to certain populations. As our understanding of these substances and their potential therapeutic effects increases, the regulations surrounding their use could evolve in the future. 🌱✨
Conclusion 😊
The use of substances altering consciousness in prehistoric times has left a lasting imprint on human history. From the rituals of ancient civilizations to the exploration of the modified states of consciousness, these substances have shaped our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Although the total extent of their influence remains a subject of study and continuous debate, it is obvious that drugs have played a significant role in the development of human society. 🌍✨
FAQS (Frequently Questions)
Was substances altering consciousness commonly used in prehistoric times?
Yes, archaeological evidence suggest that the use of substances altering consciousness was widespread in various ancient civilizations.
What were the effects of these substances?
The effects varied according to the substance, but they often included hallucinations, changes in sensory perception and altered states of consciousness.
Did these substances have evolving advantages?
Research suggests that consumption of psychedelic substances could have given advantageous social and behavioral models for survival to groups that used them.
Are substances altering the mind still used today?
Yes, there has been a resurgence of research and medical use of substances altering the mind, especially in the field of mental health treatment.
Are these substances legal?
The legal status of substances altering the mind varies from country to country. Currently, most countries have strict regulations surrounding their use and distribution.
Can these substances be used safely?
When used judiciously and under controlled conditions, these substances can provide advantages to certain populations. However, it is important to approach their use with caution and under the direction of professionals.
Are there potential risks or side effects associated with their use?
Like any substance, substances altering the mind have potential risks and side effects. These may vary depending on the substance and individual factors. It is important to be well informed and use them in a responsible manner.
How did the substances altering the mind influence human society?
Substances altering the mind have played a role in the development of complex social relations, cooperation and rich forms of human communication. They contributed to the training of common values and to the decision -making in groups.
Is research in progress in this area?
Yes, researchers continue to study the effects and potential advantages of substances altering the mind. As our understanding progresses, new perspectives on their historical and contemporary use are discovered.
How can knowledge of the use of prehistoric drugs benefit us today?
Understanding the ancestral use of substances altering the mind can provide valuable information on human behavior, social dynamics and potential medical and therapeutic applications of these substances. 😊
