Discovery and Artifact Analysis
Evidence of hallucinogenic substances was discovered in a 2,000-year-old Bes-shaped mug, proving the item’s use in ancient Egyptian rituals. This historic finding is the first-ever chemical analysis of such an item that was straight-linked to religious and magical activities. The findings published in Scientific Reports on November 13, 2024, analyzed residue from a mug housed at the Tampa Museum of Art
Major Ingredients in the Ritual Concoction
The analysis uncovered a complex combination of ingredients:
Alcoholic Base
Most probably fermented beer or wine, flavored with honey, sesame seeds, pine nuts, licorice, and grapes.
Medicinal and Hallucinogenic Plants
Egyptian blue water lily and Syrian rue, used for sedative and visionary purposes.
Cleome, which is used in medicine to induce labor or even abortion at high doses.
Human Bodily Fluids
Blood traces, breast milk, and mucus, added probably for symbolic or ritualistic reasons.
Religious and Ritual Context
The Bes mug is used during the rituals most likely held in the Bes Chambers at Saqqara near the Great Pyramids. They ingest the psychedelic drink in an effort to induce dream-like visions, euphoria, or a meditative state. It was considered a means to ensure that the pregnancy is successful and guards against childbirth dangers.
Significance of the Findings
Historical Interest:
Verifies myths and texts about Bes chambers as well as their magical workings.
Scientific Evidence:
The first direct chemical proof of such substances in ancient Egyptian context.
Cultural Insight:
This shows symbolical and practical use of psychotropic substances in Greco-Roman Egypt.
Statements of Researchers
Dr. Branko van Oppen, in the study’s coauthor, said:
“This mix of ingredients may have been used in a dream-vision-inducing magic ritual within the context of the dangerous period of childbirth.”
Lead researcher Dr. Davide Tanasi added:
“This study provides scientific proof that Egyptian myths hold some truth, shedding light on poorly understood rituals.”
