Chimpanzees Seen ‘Self-Medicating’ With Healing Plants

Chimpanzees in Uganda have been observed self-medicating with healing plants when injured or unwell. Researchers studying two wild chimpanzee communities in the Budongo Central Forest Reserve noticed the animals seeking out plants they don't typically eat, such as tree bark or fruit skin. Subsequent tests revealed that these plants had healing properties, including pain relief and antibacterial effects.

The study, published in PLOS One, found that many plants produce compounds with healing properties that the chimpanzees actively sought out when needed. One example included a male chimpanzee with an injured hand eating fern leaves, which are known to reduce pain and swelling. This behavior was previously unknown, highlighting the importance of further research on animal self-medication and healing practices in the wild.