New research shows that wild chimpanzees use plants to treat their wounds and help other chimps heal. Scientists observed chimps chewing plants, applying poultices, licking wounds, and even removing snares set by hunters.
The study combined about eight months of new observations with decades of earlier records, including videos and photos. Researchers saw chimps press wounds, dab medicinal leaves, and use leaves to clean themselves after sex or bathroom visits.
Notably, chimps also cared for injured group members who were not closely related, suggesting they show empathy and altruism.
Chimpanzees and bonobos, our closest living relatives, may have inherited these care behaviors from a common ancestor that lived millions of years ago. Other animals, like elephants and orangutans, have also been seen self-medicating with plants or insects.
Studying these behaviors is difficult because they happen rarely and require close observation. Freymann spent months in Uganda’s Budongo Forest following wild chimps, sometimes spending long days tracking their movements and noting their health and interactions.
The research team documented 41 cases of wound care, including 34 instances of self-care and 7 where chimps helped others.
Some of the plants used by chimps were tested and found to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, showing that these animals might understand which plants can help their healing.
