New research suggests African elephants use dozens of plant species to treat themselves and their calves when they are sick. Scientists, who interviewed wildlife scouts and community elders, found that the elephants use 35 different plants, 25 of which are locally recognized as medicinal. Accounts include observations of elephant mothers selecting plants for their calves, although researchers stress that more evidence is needed to establish deliberate medical treatment. Scientists are now giving local wildlife experts cameras to document elephant behavior and analyzing the plants for potentially useful biological compounds. The study builds on a long history of observations of animal self-medication. The findings also highlight conservation concerns: destroying forests could remove natural sources of medicine for wildlife and people, while protecting habitats could preserve potential sources of future pharmaceutical discoveries.