Neandertals Created Antibacterial Ointment From Birch Tar

Neandertals produced a birch tar adhesive with antibacterial properties, according to a new study. Researchers recreated the Neandertal process of slowly burning birch bark.

This process created a tar used to attach stone tools. The study, published in PLOS One, found the tar effectively killed Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA.

The tar’s antiseptic qualities suggest potential wound-healing applications. Modern cultures, like the Mi’kmaq in Canada and Arctic Indigenous peoples, use birch tar medicinally. Researchers created the tar using pyrolysis, carefully controlling the burn to avoid ash.

Archaeologists note medicinal plants have been found at Neandertal sites. However, some doubt Neandertals intentionally used the tar as medicine. They suggest other plants in the environment could have served the same purpose.