With the discoveries made in recent years, the “primitive Neanderthal” image is gradually disappearing. We now know that they buried their dead, made art, and controlled fire. But now we know something else: They were also pioneers in the field of chemistry, producing the world’s first synthetic adhesive. This substance was birch tar. Moreover, this invention may not only be an adhesive, but also an advanced “medical” tool of the prehistoric period.
new findings
It is thought that this tar was not only a powerful adhesive, but also may have been used by Neanderthals as a powerful antiseptic to heal wounds and prevent fatal infections—much like the antiseptics we use in our homes today.
This information is based on a study published in the journal PLOS One in March. Researchers tested the effect of this prehistoric material on wound healing. To ensure that the results were consistent with the Pleistocene period, not only modern laboratory samples were used; The production methods used by Neanderthals were recreated exactly.
How was it produced?
The researchers mimicked methods available to hominids of that period: distillation in primitive clay pits, concentrating smoke from birch bark on stone surfaces.
Laboratory tests
The tar obtained by the Neanderthal method was tested against various types of bacteria in the laboratory. The results were quite clear. It showed strong antibacterial properties. It was especially effective against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. This bacterium is known to be a species that can cause infection in skin wounds and still poses a serious problem today. This bacterium is also one of the species known today as “super bacteria” that can develop resistance to antibiotics.
A simple wound meant death
Even a simple cut while hunting 100 thousand years ago could be fatal. Therefore, the research suggests that Neanderthals may have discovered the medicinal benefits of this substance through experience while processing birch bark.
A versatile discovery
This finding changes our view of the technological capabilities of Neanderthals. Birch tar may have been used as an industrial adhesive in weapons production and as an antiseptic and antibiotic-like agent for wounds.
