Archaeologists have uncovered remarkable remnants of cannabis within a 2,700-year-old royal tomb located in the Xinjiang region of China. The discovery includes charred seeds and resin traces, providing the earliest known physical proof of cannabis use for ritualistic and possibly medicinal purposes. This finding sheds new light on ancient cultural practices, suggesting that cannabis was an integral part of spiritual ceremonies and royal customs long before previously documented.

Key details of the excavation:

  • Location: Yanghai Tombs, Xinjiang
  • Age: Approximately 2,700 years
  • Artifacts found: Charred cannabis seeds, resin residues
  • Significance: Oldest physical evidence of cannabis usage linked to ritualistic practices
AspectDetails
Plant ConditionWell-preserved cannabis seeds and resin
Possible UseRitualistic smoking and healing
Tomb OwnerAncient royal figure, likely a shaman
Research…