Injured Orangutan Observed Utilizing Plants To Heal Sustained Injury

Scientists have made an extraordinary discovery in Indonesia, where a wounded Sumatran orangutan was observed using a plant-based paste to heal a significant wound on its cheek. 

According to BBC, this groundbreaking observation marks the first time that a wild animal has been documented self-medicating with a medicinal plant. 

Astonishingly, after applying the plant poultice, the orangutan's wound closed up and fully healed within a month. 

This behavior is believed to stem from a shared common ancestor between humans and great apes, highlighting the striking similarities we have with our closest relatives, as stated by scientist.

Dr. Isabella Laumer, a biologist at the Max Planck Institute in Germany and the lead author of the research, emphasizes the significance of this finding in further establishing our kinship with these remarkable creatures, as reported by the BBC.

The research team, situated in Indonesia's Gunung Leuser National Park, initially noticed the injured orangutan named Rakus in June 2022, with a conspicuous wound on its cheek. 

Based on the orangutan's vocalizations, known as "long calls," the team suspects that Rakus sustained the injury during a confrontation with rival male orangutans. 

Subsequently, they observed Rakus chewing the stem and leaves of a plant called Akar Kuning, which possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties and is locally used to treat conditions such as malaria and diabetes.

Scientists observed Rakus chewing a medicinal leaf and transforming it into a paste. He diligently applied the liquid onto his cheek for a duration of seven minutes. 

Subsequently, Rakus proceeded to smear the chewed leaves onto his wound, ensuring complete coverage. Engaging in this ritual, he continued to consume the plant for a period exceeding 30 minutes.

Remarkably, the paste and leaves seemed to possess extraordinary properties. The researchers were astounded to witness the absence of any infection, as the wound miraculously closed within a mere five days.

Following the passage of a month, Rakus's cheek exhibited complete healing, leaving no trace of the previous injury.

Based on their observations, the scientists reached the conclusion that Rakus possessed knowledge of the medicinal properties of the plant. 

This deduction was supported by the fact that orangutans rarely consume this specific plant and the extensive duration of Rakus's treatment.

This account also reminded me of our dog, Rex, back in 2005. Whenever Rex fell ill, he would refuse to eat and display a melancholic demeanor. However, after some time, he would venture towards nearby bushes and commence feeding on a particular plant.

Within a few days, Rex would rebound and fully recover from his ailment. While scientists may have formulated their own theories regarding this animal's behavior, perhaps it is time for us to perceive these creatures in a different light, rather than merely viewing them as ordinary animals.