Organic residues of pottery samples were analyzed for the presence of caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, the primary methylxanthine markers for cacao.  In addition the samples were also analyzed for Ursolic acid as a specific chemical signature for the species Ilex (holly).  A high ratio of theobromine to caffeine, the primary methylxanthine markers for cacao, is a strong indication for the presence for cacao, while the presence of Ursolic acid indicates the use of Ilex Vomitoria.  Identifying the use of species of Ilex (holly) is important as it was believed to be used to prepare the ritually important Black Drink for Cahokia culture dating circa A.D. 1050-1250.   Theobromine, caffeine, and theophylline extractions were performed with distilled water at elevated temperature, while Ursolic acid extractions were performed with methanol.  All samples were analyzed using a Varian 325 LC/MS/MS triple quadropole mass spectrometer.

Chemical analyses of organic residues in fragments of pottery to identify drinks used in ritual ceremonies

245th National Meeting (2013)

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