A Wild Orangutan Was Spotted Using A Medicinal Plant To Treat A Wound
May 9, 2024
Today's good news story comes from South Aceh, Indonesia.
A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports has revealed a remarkable case of self-medication in a male Sumatran orangutan.
Researchers documented the orangutan, named Rakus, exhibiting a novel behavior in response to a facial wound sustained during a possible altercation with other orangutans.
Photo by Timo Schlüter
Three days after the injury, Rakus was observed engaging in a series of deliberate actions to treat his wound. He selectively tore leaves from a liana known as Fibraurea tinctoria, commonly referred to as Akar Kuning, and chewed them, releasing the plant's juice. He then applied this juice directly onto the wound, repeating the process several times. As a final step, Rakus covered the wound entirely with the chewed leaves.
The behavior displayed by Rakus is particularly noteworthy because Fibraurea tinctoria and related liana species are known for their medicinal properties, including analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Chemical analyses have identified compounds in these plants with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which are relevant to wound healing.
Rakus / Credit: Nature.com
Observations over subsequent days showed no signs of infection, and by June 30, the wound had already closed, leaving only a faint scar. Additionally, Rakus exhibited increased resting behavior after sustaining the wound, which may have contributed positively to the healing process.
This study marks the first systematic documentation of active wound treatment with a biologically active plant substance in great apes and other non-human species. The findings shed new light on the capacity of animals, particularly primates, to engage in self-medication and provide insights into the origins of human wound care practices.
Read the full scientific study on Nature.com
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
Starbucks Barista Breaks Down In Tears After Customer Returns With Note
Woman Accidentally Orders Scottish Dialect Version Of Harry Potter And It's Absolutely Fantastic
Blue Jays Fan's Kindness Creates Unforgettable Moment For Young Yankees Supporter
Vertical Lights Appear In Night Sky Over Coastal Japanese Town
Young Fan Sends Bills Rookie A Letter And Bracelets. He Wore Them In His Official Photos
6 Brilliant Budgeting Apps For College Students
'Bloody 9 Pounds!' Girl Goes On Hilarious Rant About Ice Cream Prices
Squirrel Perfectly Peels An Avocado For His Owner
A Priceless Moment Captured Between A Father And Daughter On Her Birthday
Once Upon A Time In Oregon: Homeowner Captures Real-Life Bambi And Thumper Visit
The Great Escape: Owner Sets Up Camera To See How Cat Keeps Getting Out