'Anthropology of intoxication' in prehistoric European societies

[botanika]

Alcohol and drugs: Not just for modern man: 'Anthropology of intoxication' in prehistoric European societies

http://phys.org/news/2014-05-alcohol-drugs-modern-anthropology-intoxication.html

"Far from being consumed for hedonistic purposes, drug plants and alcoholic drinks had a sacred role among prehistoric societies," says Guerra-Doce. "It is not surprising that most of the evidence derives from both elite burials and restricted ceremonial sites, suggesting the possibility that the consumption of mind-altering products was socially controlled in prehistoric Europe."

I'm sure some of it was still hedonistic and amongst commoners. It could also be that elite and restricted ceremonial sites are simply better preserved due to wealth, construction or location.