Paleolithic Hunters Poisoned Their Weapons : Early Innovation in Prehistoric Survival
Archaeological evidence suggests that Paleolithic hunters may have poisoned their weapons, demonstrating a surprising level of chemical knowledge and tactical innovation for early humans. Traces of toxic plant extracts and animal-derived toxins found on stone tools and projectile tips indicate that these early hunters used natural poisons to increase the lethality of their weapons, improving their chances of a successful hunt. This strategy allowed them to target larger or faster prey with greater efficiency, even from a distance. The use of poisons in Paleolithic hunting reveals not only resourcefulness but also early experimentation with natural substances—marking a significant step in the evolution of human survival strategies and cognitive development.