Discovery Scope — Ohlone Mortar and Pestle

The Ohlone relied heavily on the mortar and pestle not only for their food preparation but also for their medicinal practices. The women primarily used the mortar and pestle to grind acorns into a fine flour. This flour was a very central part of their diet, often made into hearty soups and bread. Mortars and pestles were also used to grind herbs then used in medicinal remedies. Mortars and pestles are still used extensively — you may even find one in your own kitchen!