Ancient Highs: How Egyptians Used Psychedelics in Their Sacred Ceremonies

Ancient Egypt’s secrets are always fascinating, and a recent discovery adds to the intrigue. The University of South Florida’s Prof. Davide Tanasi headed a study team that produced the first tangible proof that Egyptians were using psychotropics. Evidence suggests that Egyptians used to consume hallucinogenic substances during sacred rituals.

The Discovery of the Bes Mug

Researchers analyzed the “Bes Mug,” a vessel depicting Bes, a widely worshipped deity of fertility and revelry in ancient Egypt. Advances chemical residue analysis of the mugs revealed traces of psychoactive substances, suggesting that Egyptians may have consumed hallucinogenic brews in their rituals.

A Gateway to the Divine

Many of the ancient cultures used psychoactive substances to achieve altered states and connect with divine energy. In Egypt, priests or rulers might have used these brews for spiritual enlightenment or sacred ceremonies.

What Was in These Ritual Potions?

Analysis suggests the drinks contained the following;
Blue Lotus: Also known as Egyptian Lotus. It is a mild hallucinogen often used in Egyptian rituals. Today, it has been used as a sleep aid and anxiety reliever. However, in higher doses, it can give euphoria and hallucinations to the user.

Mandrake – A plant with mystical and psychoactive properties. The plant is also known as ‘screaming plant’ as it produces screams while being cut or dehydrated. In the Middle Ages, it was used to treat almost everything from insomnia and infertility to even foretell the future.

Opium Poppy – A plant that is widely popular even now to produce opiates, capable of inducing altered mental states.

Alcohol – Likely used to enhance effects.

This mixture was flavored with honey, sesame seeds, pine nuts, licorice and grapes, which were commonly used to give it a blood-like appearance.

The Role of Bes

Bes on these mugs indicates a link to protection, celebration, and spiritual elevation. The ritual drinks may have been consumed in a joyous yet sacred atmosphere.

The Legacy of Egyptian Psychedelics

This discovery suggests Egyptians actively sought transcendence through mind-expanding experiences. Their sacred beverages may have played a crucial role in their religious and mystical practices, revealing an advanced understanding of consciousness.
The more we uncover about the past, the more we realize just how advanced the ancients were, not just in engineering and medicine, but in their understanding of consciousness itself.!