For the first time, an animal has been observed treating a wound they have with a plant – which is known by humans to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties., named Rakus by the researchers, also slept more than usual over that period – another well known remedy used by humans that the great apes appear to share.
The research took place at the Suaq Balimbing research site, a protected rainforest area home to approximately 150 critically endangered Sumatran orangutans. “Analyses of plant chemical compounds show the presence of substances which are known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antioxidant, and other biological activities of relevance to wound healing.”She added: “Rakus also rested more than usual when being wounded. Sleep positively affects wound healing as growth hormone release, protein synthesis and cell division are increased during sleep.