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Inca Mummies Show Ritual Use of Coca, Alcohol, and Ayahuasca
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What Happened?
Recent analysis of eight frozen Inca mummies reveals that all had chewed coca leaves, four consumed alcohol, and one, Juanita, ingested a plant linked to ayahuasca. These findings shed light on the capacocha ritual.
Key points
- Eight frozen Inca mummies were found in the Andes, sacrificed over 500 years ago.
- All mummies showed evidence of coca leaf consumption, confirming its sacred role.
- Four mummies had traces of alcohol, likely chicha, used to calm the children.
- Juanita, a famous mummy, had harmine, suggesting a drink linked to ayahuasca.
- The capacocha ritual involved sacrifices during crises to appease mountain gods.
Key insights
- The use of coca and alcohol indicates a complex preparation for sacrificial rituals.
- Juanita's unique substance suggests specific ceremonial practices tied to her sacrifice.
- The findings highlight the political dimensions of the capacocha ritual in reinforcing Inca authority.
Why it matters
These findings enhance our understanding of Inca rituals and their cultural significance.
Entities
Inca· OrganizationJuanita· PersonAndes· LocationPeru· Country
Source
Times of India
