This discovery in France reveals the use of poisoned arrows 54,000 years ago

The discovery of poisoned arrows might revolutionize our understanding of hunting during the Paleolithic. This archaeological breakthrough reveals unsuspected skills of our ancestors, dating back 54,000 years.

Recent research carried out in Southern Africa and Europe has uncovered the use of poisons as early as this distant time. These ancient practices demonstrate an impressive ingenuity for human survival in the face of prehistoric environmental challenges.


Traditional archaeology couldn't detect traces of poisons on arrows, but recent biomolecular analyses have changed that dynamic. Cardiac glycosides were found on arrowheads in Africa, dating between 24,000 and 37,000 years ago, suggesting a sophisticated hunting strategy.

The discovery of arrows in Mandrin Cave, France, supports the hypothesis of a similar use of poisons. Archaeologists estimate that 26% of these tips were used to paralyze prey with toxic substances, far earlier than previously believed. This usage could date back nearly 54,000 years. Researchers employed the Tip Cross-Sectional Area (TCSA) method to differentiate poisoned arrows from others.

A minor scratch from such a tip was enough to kill prey thanks to the poison. These practices demonstrate an advanced understanding of the toxicity in local plants. In Europe, monkshood and foxglove, two deadly species, were likely used to extract toxins.

This biological expertise shows that Paleolithic hunter-gatherers were not just simple tool users, but ingenious strategists exploiting their environment to their advantage.

The use of poisoned arrows wasn't limited to one region or era. Similar evidence has been found in Egypt and among the San people of Southern Africa, highlighting the universal practice among ancient societies.

What is Tip Cross-Sectional Area (TCSA)?

The Tip Cross-Sectional Area (TCSA) is a method used in archaeology to measure the cross-sectional area of arrowheads. By analyzing the size and shape of the tips, researchers can determine their likely purpose. For instance, smaller tips are often associated with poisoned arrows.

The importance of TCSA lies in its ability to reveal the function of arrows based on their penetration ability. Poisoned arrows require less penetration, which explains their smaller tips. In contrast, non-poisoned arrows need to penetrate deeper into prey.

This technique helps distinguish poisoned arrows from other types of weapons like javelins or spears, offering insights into ancient hunting strategies.