Researchers have identified chemical traces of plant-based poison on Stone Age arrowheads from South Africa, dating back 60,000 years. This marks the oldest direct evidence of humans using arrow poison for hunting. The findings highlight early mastery of natural toxins from the gifbol plant.
An international team from South Africa and Sweden examined quartz arrowheads excavated from the Umhlatuzana Rock Shelter in KwaZulu-Natal. Chemical analysis revealed residues of alkaloids buphanidrine and epibuphanisine, compounds from the toxic gifbol plant, known scientifically as Boophone disticha. These arrowheads provide the first direct proof of poison use on weapons from that era.
The study, published in Science Advances, indicates that early humans in southern Africa combined bow-and-arrow technology with plant toxins to improve hunting. Previously, evidence for such practices relied on indirect clues, but these residues confirm the sophistication of prehistoric hunters.
"This is the oldest direct evidence that humans used arrow poison," said Professor Marlize Lombard, a researcher at the Palaeo-Research Institute at the University of Johannesburg. "It shows that our ancestors in southern Africa not only invented the bow and arrow much earlier than previously thought, but also understood how to use nature's chemistry to increase hunting efficiency."
Similar chemical signatures appeared on 250-year-old arrowheads collected in the 18th century and preserved in Swedish museums, suggesting a tradition of poison knowledge passed down over generations. Professor Sven Isaksson, from Stockholm University's Archaeological Research Laboratory, noted the stability of these substances: "Finding traces of the same poison on both prehistoric and historical arrowheads was crucial." He added that the discovery underscores a "deep and long-standing understanding of the use of plants."
The application of poison required planning and knowledge of toxin effects, reflecting advanced cognitive skills. As Professor Anders Högberg from Linnaeus University's Department of Cultural Sciences explained, "Using arrow poison requires planning, patience and an understanding of cause and effect. It is a clear sign of advanced thinking in early humans."
This collaboration between South African and Swedish researchers paves the way for further studies on ancient technologies.
