Ancient Egyptian Bes Mug Reveals Psychedelic Rituals

Chemical analysis uncovers mind-altering substances in a 2,000-year-old Egyptian vessel.

A recent study identified a complex mixture of psychedelics, alcohol, and bodily fluids in a Ptolemaic-era Egyptian mug.
The mug, adorned with the head of the deity Bes, suggests its use in rituals tied to fertility and spiritual transformation.
The analysis revealed psychoactive plants like Syrian rue and blue water lily, known for inducing visionary states.
Human fluids, including blood and mucus, were found in the mixture, indicating symbolic ritual significance.
This groundbreaking discovery provides the first physical evidence of psychedelic use in ancient Egyptian ceremonies.