'Disturbing' 2,000-year-old dolls discovered on top of pyramid by archaeologists
A pair of intrepid archaeologists from the University of Warsaw made a groundbreaking discovery at the San Isidro site in El Salvador - five ancient clay figurines perched atop a dilapidated pyramid.
This find, detailed in the journal Antiquity, features rare Bolinas artefacts, akin to puppet-like curios, which are incredibly scarce and were previously unearthed at the early Maya Tak'alik Ab'aj in Guatemala.
The figurines date back over two millennia and offer tantalising prospects for shedding light on an olden Mesoamerican civilisation. Carbon-14 analyses confirmed that these pieces hail from between 410 and 380 B.C.E.
These recently unearthed treasures, with mouths agape and ranging from mere inches to a sizeable foot in height, possess an interesting design. The larger ones even have removable heads with apertures suited for strings at their necks and craniums.
Theorising upon their usage, scientists surmise that inserting string through these openings would allow the figures to be animated, much like rudimentary marionettes, reports the Express.
Jan Szymaski revealed his impressions of these historical icons in an interview with ScienceLink's Lizzie Wade, saying: "They are clay actors. When you hold them in your hand, sometimes they even look creepy because of their vivid expressions.
"Very little is known about the identities and ethnolinguistic affiliations of the creators of ancient settlements that predate the arrival of Europeans in the early 16th century. This gets worse the further back in time we look. This finding is only the second such a group found in situ, and the first to feature a male figure."
El Salvador's pre-Columbian past remains shrouded in mystery, especially when contrasted with its Central American neighbours. The country's dense population coupled with countless years of volcanic activity have obscured and even destroyed many potential archaeological sites.
It has been found that artefacts resembling those at San Isidro were also uncovered in parts of Guatemala and other areas in El Salvador as well as Nicaragua, Panama, and Costa Rica; this indicates a possible network between the inhabitants of San Isidro and distant cultures.
The site of San Isidro consists mainly of clay formations, built by an unknown civilisation, and has not yet been fully investigated. Researchers stumbled upon the Bolinas figurines amid the remains at the peak of the site's biggest pyramid-shaped structure.
Researchers are now hypothesising that these versatile Bolinas figurines could've had a significant role in "rituals that would involve recreation of some actual events or mythical events," as explained by Szymaski in a conversation with Benjamin Taub from IFL Science.
Szymaski added: "This discovery contradicts the prevailing notion about El Salvador's cultural backwardness or isolation in ancient times,
"It reveals the existence of vibrant and far-reaching communities capable of exchanging ideas with remarkably distant places."
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The Independent
a day ago
- The Independent
The wellness world is hot for infrared – but do these saunas really offer revolutionary cellular healing?
Embraced by ancient civilisations and modern holistic practices alike, sweating has long been a cornerstone of healing. From Mesoamerican sweat lodges to traditional Scandinavian saunas, the concept of using heat to shift stagnant energy, clear the mind and support physical recovery is age old. Though the modern wellness movement has fully embraced the benefits of heat therapy, it's also taken it to new heights with the invention of the infrared sauna. These high-tech heat pods have now largely replaced traditional wood-fired saunas in many hotel spas and upscale gyms. With glowing endorsements from the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, and a cult following among longevity enthusiasts and biohackers, infrared therapy is touted as a smarter, softer, deeper heat. But are the supposed cellular-level health benefits legitimate? After reading several studies published between 2018 and 2023 which suggested regular sauna use could increase brain-derived neurotrophic factors, reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease and extend lifespan, I started using infrared sauna cabins regularly, before investing in a sauna blanket I could use at home. I had hoped that regular use would reduce inflammation and stress and help with my haywire hormone levels and sleep issues. After a couple of years of regular use I've largely been impressed with the results and I now try to do at least a weekly session in my sauna blanket or visit a dedicated infrared sauna location – like west London's Sweat Lounge. Though I've found my sauna experiences to be effective, I was keen to find out if many of the claims made by infrared sauna manufacturers and biohacking enthusiasts can be corroborated by health professionals. I spoke with two longevity doctors for their verdict on the benefits of infrared. What is an infrared sauna? According to Nasa, infrared light has a range of wavelengths, with near infrared light being the closest to visible light and far infrared waves being thermal and perceived as heat. Unlike a traditional convection heated sauna, these waves rapidly penetrate and heat the tissue in the body rather than heating the air around the body. This creates a more comfortable experience, with lower ambient temperatures, typically 45-60C compared to 70-110C in traditional saunas. An infrared sauna will still make you sweat, but you might not feel the sweat rolling off your body as quickly as you might in a traditional sauna. 'Think of infrared heat as gentle, invisible light that warms you directly, rather than just heating the air around you,' says Dr Matthew Calcasola, chief medical officer at Get A Drip. 'Unlike a traditional sauna that feels super hot, an infrared sauna gets you sweating comfortably at a much lower temperature. This direct, deep warmth is why it's so popular – you get all the benefits of heat therapy without feeling overwhelmed, making it a great option for more people.' What are the health benefits of infrared sauna? 'The list of benefits is pretty impressive, and it's why we're seeing so much excitement,' says Dr Calcasola. 'By gently raising your body temperature, it's like a mild workout for your heart, boosting circulation and potentially lowering blood pressure.' 'The warmth soothes sore muscles, eases joint stiffness and can help with chronic pain. It's a secret weapon for athletes recovering from intense workouts. The cosy warmth is incredibly relaxing, helping to lower stress hormones and boost your mood. It's a great way to unwind and improve sleep.' 'Better circulation means more nutrients reaching your skin, which can lead to a clearer complexion and even help with collagen production for healthier-looking skin,' he adds. Dr Harpal Bains, a longevity doctor and medical director at Harpal Clinic, adds that, 'regular use has been associated with reduced inflammation, lower stress levels through nervous system calming, enhanced skin tone and condition and faster injury recovery. It may also support parasympathetic activation and lower cortisol over time.' A 2015 study showed promising effects on the speed of wound healing and healthy new cell growth, however, the results weren't conclusive enough to say whether or not infrared saunas are a miracle treatment for skin damage. One thing that is conclusive is that regular use is the best way to see results. 'Many people find great results using an infrared sauna three to four times a week, with each session lasting 20-45 minutes,' says Dr Calcasola. The body benefits from consistent protocols, which is why the biohacking crowd is so attached to their morning and evening routines. Consistent use is proven to be much more effective if you're seeking the benefits of infrared, than a one-off sauna session, although this can still be relaxing and provide a decent circulation and heart rate boost. One of the buzziest claims around infrared saunas is their ability to detoxify the body. While the word detox has become a loaded and often misused term in wellness, there is some support for the idea that intense sweating can help eliminate certain compounds. 'Regular use may reduce overall toxic burden, although exact clearance levels vary,' explains Dr Bains. 'Infrared heat increases circulation and stimulates sweat glands, which may help release stored toxins like heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic), BPA and phthalates.' With that said, many health professionals still push back on the narrative that the body needs help with detoxing. Our liver, kidneys and skin already do this job very well on their own. The science around how much infrared therapy enhances these natural processes remains inconclusive, but it's clear that the practice can support how the body feels while it's doing its job. Are infrared sauna blankets worth it? With the rise of at-home wellness tools, infrared sauna blankets have entered the mainstream as a more affordable, accessible option. But how do they compare to full cabins? I've tried almost every sauna blanket on the market and personally, I'm a fan. At-home gadgets like blankets can be great for people with busy schedules, those with limited mobility or pain issues or for those who prefer to sweat in private, rather than at a longevity clinic or gym. However, there are some differences that the experts note. 'The main difference [between blankets and cabins] lies in heat distribution and intensity,' explains Dr Bains. 'Sauna cabins provide full-body (including the head) and evenly dispersed infrared exposure, while blankets are more localised and may not raise core temperature as effectively. However, blankets can be a convenient and cost-effective option for home use especially if used consistently.' Dr Calcasola agrees: 'It's all about how infrared is delivered to the body. An infrared sauna cabin is a dedicated, enclosed space where infrared panels beam heat directly onto your body. Blankets are portable wraps you put on. They use infrared, but much of the heat comes from direct contact with your skin. They're super convenient and more affordable for home use, offering many similar benefits in a more accessible way.' Joie Risk, managing director of Sunlighten – one of the world's leading manufacturers of quality infrared saunas – explains that there are also a few things to consider if you're not sure whether to invest in a blanket, spend money on visiting a cabin at a clinic or invest in a cabin of your own 'If someone is serious about supporting their health goals, they should look for a product that offers therapeutic benefits, not just relaxation or a 'recreational' experience',' she says. ' In recent years, the infrared sauna market has seen huge growth with lots of new entrants to a largely unregulated market. Therefore, there are a lot of low-cost, unregulated products, many of which lack scientific backing.' 'Far infrared is the foundational wavelength offering therapeutic health benefits. Some infrared cabins might offer additional wavelengths (often called full spectrum) which have mid infrared (MIR) and near infrared (NIR). These wavelengths penetrate the body slightly differently. MIR activates water cells and hormesis, NIR activates mitochondria, cell regeneration and stimulates collagen and elastin. They all offer additional therapeutic benefits such as skincare, deep tissue muscle recovery and improved sleep.' she adds. A sauna blanket typically only offers far infrared waves and doesn't offer the other wavelengths. You'll still experience plenty of benefits from infrared alone, however, Risk also explains that not all infrared technology is created equal and that customers should be discerning. She also recommends avoiding cheap materials, high EMFs and volatile organic compounds that can be off-gassed from some products. 'Avoid saunas made with ceramic heaters, low-grade hemlock wood which is often unsustainably sourced, or poor-quality red light LEDs – these are comparable to those used in chicken coops,' she advises. 'Also look for clinical or third-party testing, without this health claims are unsubstantiated. And avoid products with high VOCs – these can be harmful and counterproductive to wellness goals. If you're buying any kind of sauna you want to ensure the company has ultra-low EMF testing and understands EMF remediation. A more spacious cabin may offer more opportunities for habit stacking with room for yoga or stretching, but it's a matter of personal preference whether cabins are more relaxing.' Infrared sauna risks – are there any? While infrared therapy is generally considered safe, it's not without caveats, especially for those with underlying health conditions or sensitivity to heat. Heat therapy can feel strange the first few times you're exposed so always start at a lower temperature and work your way up. It's also worth being mindful of broken or irritated skin as this can be more sensitive to heat, and removing any jewellery before entering a sauna. It's also important that you're using a sauna for the right reasons. Though you might have seen claims around weight loss, it's important to note that any water weight you lose through sweat, you'll likely put back on as soon as you rehydrate. Infrared saunas are beloved as a wellness tool for better sleep, better circulation and glowing skin but they're not really a weight loss tool. Dr Calcasola adds, 'you'll sweat a lot, so drink plenty of water or electrolytes before, during, and after your session. Listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or unwell, step out. Overheating isn't good. If you have heart conditions or are on certain medications, speak to your doctor. Think of saunas as a great complement to a good diet and exercise, not a replacement.' It's hard to deny the feel-good effects of a stint in an infrared sauna. Skin feels smoother and looks glowier, muscles feel more relaxed and the mind feels lighter. Whether or not you subscribe to the detox narrative, the relaxing effects, raised heart rate and circulation boost are real enough. 'Infrared sauna isn't just about sweat, it's about cellular recovery, circulation and stress recalibration. When used correctly, it can be a powerful adjunct to longevity and healing protocols,' says Dr Bains.
Daily Mirror
23-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Breakthrough' new drug could stop ageing and halt cell self-destruction
An 'extraordinary' new class of drugs are set to undergo human trials after researchers believe they could become the first medication to reverse the effects of ageing Scientists believe they've developed a drug that could halt human ageing and reverse the impacts of 'cell death', with trials due to kick off later this year. Cell death is a natural, and essential, process that takes various forms. One such form is necrosis, an unregulated type of cell death that can lead to premature cellular destruction. During necrosis, affected cells swell until they burst, spilling their contents into the surrounding area, potentially causing chronic inflammation, genetic instability, and in some instances, tumours. This process has been associated with numerous diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, various cancers, and kidney disease. The world-renowned cancer journal, Oncogene, highlighted in May that a study into kidney disease could help researchers gain a better understanding of how necrosis operates and how to fight it, reports the Express. Dr Carina Kern, formerly a geneticist at University College London and now CEO of biotech firm LinkGevity, led the study. She believes a new category of drugs, dubbed 'anti-nectrotics', could be the first medication used to reverse the effects of ageing. Part of Dr Kern's motivation for her involvement in the project stems from her childhood experience of witnessing her grandmother's health rapidly decline due to an age-related illness. "At the time, I could not comprehend how I was so easily cured of nearly any injury, and I would be back to normal. But with her, the doctors just said 'you can't intervene-it's just ageing,'" she explained. Years later, after observing such deterioration, Dr Kern formulated the "Blueprint Theory" of ageing, which delves into the roots of ageing and identifies points for potential intervention to stave off illness. A key element identified in her research is necrosis, which Kern asserts is fundamentally a "loss of calcium-ion gradients." She elaborates: "Levels of calcium inside the cell are typically 10,000 to 100,000 times lower than outside. Calcium is a key signalling molecule, meaning it controls lots of different processes within your cell. "And so upon stress, you lose this regulation and then you're initiating multiple pathways in a heightened and really destructive manner within the cell." Although necrosis has been known for over a century and was further examined under microscopes in the 1970s, there hasn't been significant advancement in preventing its role in severe diseases. However, Dr Kern, alongside a team of renal experts, might be on the verge of a discovery targeting kidney disease that could also have implications for anti-ageing treatments. Dr Kern said: "It was thought it was just too complex a process to intervene in. What we've managed to identify for the first time is that you can block necrosis, but you have to block more than one molecular target... When we did that, we saw up to 90 per cent of suppression of necrosis." His colleague and co-author of the study, Dr Keith Siew, commented: "The by far the most in-demand organ, and the one you're most likely to die on a waiting list for. "Some people think dialysis just fixes the problem, but the mortality rate of dialysis is that every year you're on dialysis, you lose 10 per cent of survival." Having collaborated with NASA to explore how space travel impacts renal function, particularly when astronauts are exposed to cosmic radiation beyond Earth's magnetosphere, Dr Siew noted:. "Only 24 people have left the protection of Earth's magnetic field. You might feel fine on the way, but will you need dialysis on the way back?". He suggested that "Anti-necrotics could be a way to make those tissues and organs resilient enough to withstand that damage and pause cell death." Despite their groundbreaking work, both Kern and Siew maintain a cautious stance, describing themselves as "professional sceptics" regarding the potential success of the anti-necrotic drug, with clinical trials set to commence in 2025. Dr Siew emphasised the need for robust evidence: "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence," he said. "Until that data is rock solid...a lot of people will view this skeptically and rightfully so."
Daily Record
23-07-2025
- Daily Record
Picturesque Scottish walk leading to 'mysterious and magical' caves with prehistoric secrets
The trail to the caves is along the North Coast 500 and starts from a car park on the A837 between Elphin and Inchnadamph The Highlands are home to some of the UK's most breathtaking walking routes. And one stunning trail in Assynt is drawing interest for its history, wildlife and dramatic scenery. The route leads walkers to the atmospheric and aptly named Bone Caves, where the remains of animals including lynx, reindeer, and even polar bears have been uncovered. Situated near Inchnadamph, the Bone Caves have been described by Inchnadamph Explorers Lodge as one of the 'most mysterious and magical places' in the country. The name stems from the extraordinary prehistoric finds discovered inside, offering a rare glimpse into Scotland's ancient wildlife, Express reports. The caves are carved into the high limestone cliff walls of Creag nan Uamh, which translates as Crag of the Caves. Today, four shallow limestone caves remain, each around five metres deep and just tall enough for an adult to stand upright in. However, these visible caves are only a fragment of what was once a much larger system. Over time, natural erosion has deepened the valley, cutting away sections of the caves and leaving the remnants perched high and dry along the cliff face. First recorded in 1889 by geologists Peach and Horne, the caves became a site of major archaeological interest in 1928 when J.E. Cree conducted excavations and made several significant discoveries. Among the finds were human skeletons, a bear tooth, antlers, and the bones of now-extinct animals such as wolves, arctic foxes, and even a Northern lynx, the only one ever found in Scotland. Many of the artefacts recovered from the site are now held at the Royal Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. The route to the Bone Caves is a popular walk along the North Coast 500 and is accessible via a car park on the A837 between Elphin and Inchnadamph. From there, it is a 30-minute hike to reach the Allt nan Uamh, or Burn of the Caves. The walk is described as moderately easy, though some rocky areas and steep climbs require good footwear and care. Walkers are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness, with snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain providing a dramatic backdrop. The trail offers a sense of solitude and immersion in nature, with many saying it feels like being in the heart of nowhere. Visitors have shared their experiences on TripAdvisor, praising the scenery and atmosphere of the site. One reviewer wrote: "Amazing walk, amazing scenery and a real sense of atmosphere when you arrive at the bone caves. Fairly easy most of the way, a few rocky areas." Another commented: "This is a great walk, only takes about one hour each way. Should have a stick and good shoes for walking but otherwise very simple walk. Certainly recommend this if in the area, really pretty walk and great views from the caves." A third added: "These are a set of natural pre-Ice Age caves set high in a limestone cliff, where a large number of animal bones were discovered during excavation (hence the name). "It's a beautiful trail through a deep, secluded valley with a steep climb up to the caves followed by a sharp vertigo-inducing descent right along the edge of the cliff back to the valley. We were greeted by a deer at the end of our walk!"
