Historical evidence suggests silphium was used as a contraceptive in ancient Rome, though its effectiveness is debated among modern scholars.
Read full analysis →The modern heart symbol (♥) likely derives from the shape of silphium seed pods, which were depicted on ancient Cyrenaic coins.
Read full analysis →Kurt Cobain's lyrics and art show multiple references to ancient history and mythology, confirmed by his personal journals and interviews.
Read full analysis →While silphium's extinction is often attributed to Roman harvesting practices, other factors may have contributed to its disappearance.
Read full analysis →