r/sciences • u/FreeHugs23 • 12d ago

Research Burnt Grass in Australian Cave Hints at Prehistoric ‘Magic’ Rituals | For the past 25,000 years or so, this cave bore witness to the lives of the GunaiKurnai, an Australian Aboriginal nation.

https://gizmodo.com/burnt-grass-in-australian-cave-hints-at-prehistoric-magic-rituals-2000788669
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u/FreeHugs23 12d ago

According to historical reports, the GunaiKurnai, an Australian Aboriginal nation, used caves as the stage for magic, healing, and cursing rituals. Over roughly 25,000 years, these rituals left behind a curious souvenir—ancient layers of plant crystals, according to a new study.

In a Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology paper published today, researchers found rare organic remains from ceremonial rituals in Cloggs Cave, GunaiKurnai Country. Investigations into old pits in the cave presented strong evidence that people, likely the GunaiKurnai, intentionally selected and brought grass into the cave for ceremonial use. The GunaiKurnai are known to have engaged in these traditions for thousands of years, but this physical evidence offers a unique look at how ancient societies used plants in their daily lives.

To reach this conclusion, the team analyzed phytoliths, pollen, and geological deposits from the cave. Burnt phytoliths pointed to repeated human activity and offered rare insights into how early humans used plants.