Gorilla in the wild consuming medicinal plants, illustrating self-medication practices that could lead to drug discoveries.
Researchers in Gabon have discovered that gorillas may provide clues to new drug discoveries through their self-medicating habits. In a recent study, scientists observed western lowland gorillas in Gabon’s Moukalaba-Doudou National Park eating tropical plants also used by local healers. They identified four plants with potential medicinal benefits: the fromager tree, giant yellow mulberry, African teak, and fig tree. Laboratory tests revealed that these plants contain antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds, with one in particular showing promise in fighting superbugs. According to Dr. Joanna Setchell, an anthropologist who worked on the project, the discovery suggests that gorillas instinctively consume plants with healing properties. She further stated that the discovery highlights the huge gaps in experts’ knowledge of the Central African rainforests.
SOURCE: BBC