Archaeologists have discovered evidence that ancient Scythians may have used cannabis for its mind-altering effects 2,800 years ago. The findings from a burial mound in a southern Siberian tomb could provide the earliest direct evidence of people consuming cannabis as an intoxicant.
The discovery was made at Tunnug 1, a large burial site in Russia’s Republic of Tyva. Researchers found more than 1,000 cannabis seeds and chemical traces linked to the plant in preserved human hair. The study, published in the journal Science, offers new insights into ancient Scythian practices and accounts recorded centuries later by the Greek historian Herodotus.
Ancient tomb reveals evidence of cannabis consumption
The burial mound measures about 460 feet (140 meters) across and belonged to high-ranking members of Scythian society. The Scythians were nomadic people known for horseback warfare and elaborate gold objects. Researchers used radiocarbon dating to establish that the cannabis seeds were deposited in the early eighth century B.C.
They also examined braided human hair recovered from the central burial chamber. Chemical analysis revealed traces of cannabinol, a compound formed when THC, cannabis’ main intoxicating substance, breaks down. Scientists also identified weaker signals consistent with THC.
A 2,800-year-old tomb in Siberia has revealed some of the earliest direct evidence of cannabis use for its mind-altering effects.
The discovery also echoes ancient Greek historian Herodotus' accounts of Scythian rituals involving cannabis. pic.twitter.com/Ga1kHKz0tn
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) November 6, 2026
The findings add to evidence that cannabis and other mind-altering substances were used in the ancient world for medicinal, practical, and ceremonial purposes. Researchers could not determine how the Scythians consumed the plant. An independent forensic expert also questioned whether the hair analysis could rule out external contamination.
Discovery echoes ancient Greek accounts of Scythian rituals
The findings offer a possible archaeological connection to accounts written by the Greek historian Herodotus in the fifth century B.C. Herodotus described Scythians placing cannabis on heated stones during purification ceremonies following funerals. He wrote that the resulting vapor filled an enclosed space.
The Siberian tomb also contained evidence of elaborate burial rituals. Archaeologists identified remains of sacrificed horses and scattered human bones that may indicate human sacrifice. Researchers believe these ceremonies demonstrated the wealth and power of Scythian elites. The discovery adds to previous archaeological findings supporting some of Herodotus’ descriptions of Scythian customs. However, it does not establish whether cannabis was consumed during the burial ceremonies.
Ancient DNA could reveal cannabis history
The exceptionally preserved seeds may also help researchers investigate cannabis domestication. Scientists have begun sequencing their DNA, which lead researcher Gino Caspari of the University of Bern described as unusually well preserved. Further analysis could reveal how cannabis spread across Eurasia and whether ancient communities cultivated the plant for its intoxicating properties.
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