In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have observed a male Sumatran orangutan named Rakus using medicinal herbs to treat a facial wound. This marks the first time a wild animal has been seen using a substance known to have medicinal properties for wound care.
Orangutans are known for their high intelligence levels and practical skills, such as using tools and foraging for food. The use of medicinal herbs by Rakus offers new insight into the capabilities of these intelligent primates.
The plant used by Rakus is known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties, among others. This behavior raises questions about whether Rakus learned this behavior from another orangutan or if he discovered it on his own.
This research was conducted in a protected rainforest in Indonesia and published in the journal Scientific Reports. The findings not only shed light on the healing practices of orangutans but also provide insight into the origins of human wound care practices.
Other wild animals, including Bornean orangutans and chimpanzees, have also been observed self-medicating with plants and insects. This suggests that the use of medicinal substances for healing may be more widespread among primates than previously thought.
The use of medicinal herbs by Rakus highlights the resourcefulness and adaptability of orangutans, further solidifying their reputation as intelligent and practical animals. This discovery is a testament to the ingenuity of these incredible primates and opens up new avenues for research into their behavior and capabilities.
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