Wild chimpanzees in Uganda consume medicinal plants to treat illnesses and injuries, potentially aiding drug discovery.
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that wild chimpanzees may consume plants with medicinal properties to treat illnesses and injuries. Researchers observed 51 chimpanzees in Uganda over several months, finding they fed on bark, dead wood, and leaves from plants not part of their regular diet when unwell. This behaviour could potentially fast-track the discovery of new drugs to treat chronic diseases and infections.
June 20, 2024
12 Articles