Opium Use in Ancient Egypt: Evidence from Alabaster Vases

Examination of an ancient alabaster vase in the Yale Peabody Museum’s Babylonian Collection has revealed traces of opiates, providing clear evidence of broad opium use in ancient Egypt. The findings indicate that opium use was not accidental, but rather a significant aspect of daily life in ancient Egyptian cultures. Researchers believe alabaster vessels found in King Tut’s tomb might have also contained opium. The study, published in the Journal of Eastern Mediterranean Archaeology and Heritage Studies, highlights the presence of opiate residues in ancient vessels, shedding light on the daily lives and traditions of ancient peoples.