Wild Sumatran Orangutan Observes Self-Medication Behavior in Groundbreaking Study
In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Scientific Reports, scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior reported an incredible observation of a wild male Sumatran orangutan exhibiting self-medication behavior. The orangutan, named Rakus, was seen applying chewed leaves of Yellow Root, a climbing plant used in traditional medicine, to a wound on his right cheek.
This behavior, which lasted for seven minutes and was repeated over a period of five days, ultimately resulted in the wound healing completely within a month. The plant species used, Akar Kuning, has known antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, which may have aided in the healing process.
The scientists were astonished by Rakus’ actions, as they had never observed direct application of plant material to a fresh wound by a wild animal before. They speculate that this behavior may have been learned from other orangutans or passed down through a shared knowledge with a common ancestor of humans and great apes.
Primatologists are still unsure of how Rakus acquired this self-medication technique, but they believe it could have been learned from other orangutans in different regions or discovered independently through past experiences. The fact that Rakus specifically targeted the wound on his cheek and used the plant material in a methodical manner suggests intentional treatment of the lesion.
Rakus, a well-known subject of observation by researchers, continues to surprise and enlighten scientists with his behaviors. His utilization of Akar Kuning, a rare plant for orangutans to consume, showcases the incredible adaptability and intelligence of these great apes. This study opens up new avenues for understanding the complex behaviors and abilities of wild orangutans and their potential for self-medication in the wild.