Wild chimpanzees in Uganda were observed seeking out and consuming plants with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, indicating self-medication behavior.
Lab tests confirmed that a significant portion of the plants consumed by the chimpanzees inhibited bacterial growth and displayed anti-inflammatory effects, supporting intentional medicinal plant consumption.
Researchers see wild chimpanzee behavior as a valuable resource for identifying potential compounds that could lead to the discovery of new drugs for human health.
Studying chimpanzees' foraging habits and medicinal plant consumption requires a multidisciplinary approach akin to detective work, connecting behavioral observations with scientific analysis.
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