In Uganda, researchers discovered that chimpanzees possess a natural ability to find and use medicinal plants found in nature. By monitoring injured or ill monkeys, researchers were able to observe the chimps’ behavior when seeking out these plants, leading to the concept of a “jungle pharmacy.” Through laboratory studies, researchers identified potentially medicinal properties in the plants used by the chimpanzees to treat inflammations and destroy bacteria or prevent its spread in their bodies.
This discovery has opened new perspectives for the search for medicinal plants in nature. Pharmaceutical companies are still looking for such plants, and studying chimpanzees could provide valuable insights into which plants to focus on. The research conducted on samples from the chimpanzees’ feces and urine revealed that almost 90 percent of the extracts inhibited bacterial growth, while a third of the plants had natural pain-relieving properties. This highlights the importance of preserving nature’s “forest pharmacies” for future generations.
The research showed that monitored sick chimpanzees recovered completely after using these natural remedies. This finding could help narrow down the groups of plants worth studying in search of medicinal properties in nature. Overall, this discovery provides hope for finding new treatments and cures for various illnesses through studying nature’s bounty.
