Chimpanzees in Uganda have been observed using specific plants to treat their ailments, showcasing an impressive understanding of natural remedies

In a remarkable discovery, researchers in Uganda have found that chimpanzees are capable of using medicinal plants to treat their illnesses and injuries. This finding builds on similar observations of orangutans using medicinal leaves to treat wounds. The team, led by Elodie Freymann, closely studied two groups of chimpanzees, noting their use of 13 different plants for self-medication.

The study involved tracking 170 chimpanzees, among which 51 were identified as sick or injured, suffering from conditions such as diarrhoea, parasites, or wounds. The researchers followed these sick apes for up to 10 hours each day, documenting their behaviour and plant selection.

These chimpanzees appeared to search for specific plants not typically part of their regular diet, such as tree bark or certain fruit skins. The researchers collected 17 plant samples from 13 species to analyze their healing properties. The findings were remarkable: 90% of the plants tested showed antibacterial properties, and a third also had anti-inflammatory effects.

Freymann explained that the team was looking for behavioural clues indicating the medicinal use of these plants. Their observations suggested that the sick chimpanzees could identify plants that would aid their specific injuries or illnesses. This behavior was further evidenced by the fact that healthy chimpanzees did not consume these plants, which had minimal nutritional value.

For instance, a male chimpanzee with a hurt hand was seen searching for a specific fern that the rest of the group did not eat. After consuming the fern, the chimp’s hand healed within a few days. In another instance, a chimpanzee suffering from diarrhea and tapeworms left its group with two companions to find an Alstonia boonei tree. The chimp chewed on the dead bark of this tree and recovered quickly.

The study, while not definitively proving that the plants caused the recoveries, presents a strong case for the chimpanzees’ ability to speed up their healing process through self-medication. The behavior observed indicates a sophisticated knowledge of medicinal plants and their specific benefits.

Analysis

Political: This discovery underscores the importance of wildlife conservation and the protection of natural habitats. The ability of chimpanzees to self-medicate highlights the need for policies that prioritize the preservation of forests, which serve as crucial “wild pharmacies” for both wildlife and potential human medical advancements. Governments and conservation organizations must collaborate to ensure that these natural resources are protected and sustainably managed.

Social: The study enhances our understanding of chimpanzees and their cognitive abilities, fostering a deeper appreciation for these primates. This can influence societal attitudes towards wildlife, emphasizing the need for ethical treatment and conservation. Recognizing the intelligent behaviour of chimpanzees can lead to more humane and respectful interactions between humans and wildlife, promoting a culture of coexistence and mutual respect.

Racial: While the study does not directly address racial issues, it can be seen as part of a broader movement towards decolonizing science and recognizing Indigenous knowledge systems. By valuing the medicinal knowledge of chimpanzees, researchers highlight the importance of non-Western and non-human sources of knowledge, promoting a more inclusive and diverse understanding of science. This perspective can encourage respect for diverse cultures and their contributions to scientific knowledge.

Gender: The findings do not directly correlate to gender issues, but they contribute to the ongoing discourse on equity in research and conservation. Ensuring that studies and conservation efforts include diverse perspectives can lead to more holistic and effective outcomes, benefiting both human and non-human communities. Gender equity in research teams can also ensure that a variety of viewpoints are considered, enriching the scientific process.

Economical: The economic implications of this study are significant. Plants used by chimpanzees could potentially lead to the development of new medicines, offering economic benefits through pharmaceutical advancements. However, this potential must be balanced with sustainable practices to ensure that harvesting these plants does not harm the chimpanzees or their habitats. The preservation of these natural resources is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and the long-term viability of medicinal plant research. Governments and pharmaceutical companies must invest in sustainable methods to explore these natural remedies without depleting the resources or disrupting the ecosystems.