Discovery of Psychoactive Plants Under Ancient Maya Ballcourt Reveals Ritualistic Use

Archaeologists uncover ceremonial plant offerings beneath a Maya sports arena, suggesting spiritual practices during construction.

Researchers found psychoactive plants, including xtabentun with LSD-like properties, under an ancient Maya ballcourt.
The findings, derived from environmental DNA analysis, indicate these plants were used in ceremonial rituals.
This discovery offers new insights into the religious and medicinal practices of the ancient Maya civilization.
The plants included chili peppers and lancewood, known for their medicinal and religious significance.
Evidence suggests these offerings were part of a blessing ceremony to consecrate the ballcourt.