Story perspectives
Ancient Birch Bark Tar: Chewed, Healed, and Enhanced Life
10/17/2025
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Story summary
- The University of Copenhagen study shows that birch bark tar in Neolithic Europe served multiple roles beyond adhesion.
- Researchers analyzed 30 samples from nine Alpine sites and found human, plant, and microbial DNA.
- Ancient people chewed the tar, possibly for medicinal benefits or to stave off hunger.
- The tar also repaired pottery and enhanced tools, showing its practical significance in daily life.
