Entheogenic drugs and the archaeological record

Entheogenic drugs are substances that people take to change their thinking and help them reach a spiritual experience, often times with experiences and feelings of peace, joy, unity, and understanding. In archaeology, entheogens are chemical substances found in the archaeological record – evidence of their use in ancient and more recent times. This evidence can come from places like ancient settlements, temples, and burial sites, which gives us information about the practices and beliefs of the people who lived there. Entheogenic drugs can be found in artifacts such as statues, art, jewelry, and pottery. By studying the chemical substances, archaeologists can discover how and why these drugs were used in the past, and what beliefs and rituals were part of the culture.