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CNN Arabic
Prehistoric humans face pain from early drug use
An archaeological study indicates that humans in prehistoric times began using areca nut, the seed of the areca palm, approximately 25,000 to 16,000 years ago. The entire nut was chewed to alleviate pain, although some practices ceased after long periods due to tooth erosion and their adverse effects. Evidence also suggests that this substance was used to induce psychological effects, as tests have shown that chewing areca nut releases alkaloids like arecoline, which alter brain functions. This demonstrates that it was a long-standing cultural practice. The study reveals that the regular use of areca nut began early among societies that harvested fruits and plants and possibly later evolved into chewing. Notably, these practices were conducted for medicinal purposes and psychological effects, reflecting a complex relationship between humans and this substance dating back to ancient times.
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