How Early Humans Used Poison to Become Better Hunters

Scientists have recently discovered the remains of one of the most poisonous arrows ever found, dating back more than 60,000 years. This deadly poison can kill a mammal in about 30 minutes or less! This surprising discovery helps scientists learn more about when and where early humans, known as Homo sapiens, created dangerous and advanced hunting weapons. It also gives researchers a deeper understanding of how early humans survived in harsh environments.

In a new study, researchers Sven Isaksson, Anders Högberg, and Marlize Lombard found traces of a poisonous plant called Boophone disticha on the tips of the arrows. This plant originates from southern Africa and was commonly used during the mid-Pleistocene period. The poison made hunting more efficient and allowed early humans to take down larger and stronger prey with less risk. Using poison also reduced the amount of energy needed during hunts. The arrow shows that early humans were constantly thinking of new ideas to improve their tools and hunting methods, especially by using plants found in nature.

When Sven Isaksson explains that the discovery “shows how complex early humans were,” he demonstrates that creating poisonous arrows required careful planning and advanced thinking. Early humans needed strong knowledge of plants—including which ones were toxic, how to extract the poison, and how to apply it safely to weapons. They also needed problem-solving skills and cooperation. This proves that Homo sapiens were curious learners who wanted to understand the Earth and its resources to survive better.

We should not assume that early Homo sapiens were less intelligent, wild, or uneducated. Instead, we should recognize that they were very similar to modern humans. They constantly tried to improve their lives, adapt to their surroundings, and explore the unknown, just as people continue to do today.