My Tiny Feed

dw.com

Ancient Medicinal Plant Use in Morocco

Discovery of 15,000-year-old Ephedra plant remains in Morocco reveals early use of medicinal plants.

Spanish

Germany

HealthScienceArchaeologyMedicineAncient HistoryPlants

Instituto Nacional De Ciencias De La Arqueología Y Del Patrimonio (Insap)University Of Las PalmasUniversity Of OxfordUniversity Mohammed INatural History Museum Of London

What methods were used in this research?: The study, published in Nature, analyzed exceptionally well-preserved plant macrofossils from the archaeological site.
What was discovered in the Pigeon Cave in Morocco?: The discovery of Ephedra plant remains in the Pigeon Cave in Morocco provides evidence of medicinal plant use 15,000 years ago.
Which organizations participated in this research?: The international team involved researchers from institutions in Morocco, Spain, the UK, and the Natural History Museum in London.
What is the significance of the Ephedra plant discovery?: Researchers believe the Ephedra was used to stop bleeding and relieve pain, and may have played a role in funerary rituals.
How does this finding relate to the development of agriculture?: The finding demonstrates advanced knowledge of medicinal plants existed long before the development of agriculture, during the Paleolithic period.

Jan 23, 01:10

Microplastics Linked to Brain Blood Clots, Raising Dementia and Stroke Risks

A Peking University study reveals microplastics in the brain trigger immune responses, causing blood clots that may lead to stroke, depression, and possibly dementia; further research is needed.

Jan 23, 01:10

Rare Gene Mutation Linked to Late-Onset Alzheimer's

A study of an Italian family with six members affected by late-onset Alzheimer's disease reveals a rare mutation in the GRIN2C gene as a probable cause, offering a significant advancement in understanding the disease's genetic basis.

Jan 22, 13:12

Surge in Four Viruses Strains US Healthcare Systems

Four viruses (influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus) are surging in the U.S., causing widespread illness and impacting healthcare systems, with the CDC reporting high positivity rates and increased hospital visits; vaccines are available for some, but not all, of the viruses.

Jan 22, 04:12

Physical Fitness Linked to Lower Cancer Mortality Risk

A study of nearly 47,000 cancer patients found that muscular strength and cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with a 31–46% lower risk of death from any cause, with even greater reductions in specific cancer types and stages; this research, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests tailored exercise plans may improve survival rates.