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flag A Yale study found opium in a 2,500-year-old vase linked to Xerxes I, showing ancient Egyptians used it widely for ritual or daily life.

flag A Yale-led study has found definitive traces of opium in a 2,500-year-old alabaster vase linked to Persian Emperor Xerxes I, suggesting opium was used regularly in ancient Egypt, possibly in daily or ritual contexts. flag The discovery, based on chemical analysis revealing morphine and other opiate alkaloids, supports earlier evidence from New Kingdom-era tombs and indicates long-term, widespread use across social classes. flag Researchers believe such vessels, including those in Tutankhamun’s tomb, may have held valuable substances meant for the afterlife, highlighting the cultural and medicinal significance of opium in ancient societies.

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