How Chimpanzees Use Plants as Medicine in the Wild
Published on: Feb. 3, 2026, 2:31 p.m. | Source: The Economic Times
Chimpanzees exhibit sophisticated self-medication, using plants like "bitter leaf" to combat parasites and rough leaves to purge intestinal worms. This complex behaviour, observed for decades, suggests intentionality and cultural transmission of medicinal knowledge, predating human medicine. Their practices, validated by science, highlight a shared evolutionary history of healthcare with our closest relatives.
