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Will more cases of Sumatran orangutans using Akar Kuning be documented by May 2024?
5
Resolution / Starting Odds
Yes • 50%
No • 50%
Scientific publications or news releases from wildlife research organizations
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Sumatran Orangutan Uses Akar Kuning for Self-Medication, a First
May 2, 2024, 07:06 PM
In a groundbreaking observation, scientists have documented a wild Sumatran orangutan applying a medicinal plant to treat a facial wound. This marks the first recorded instance of a wild animal using a natural substance with known medicinal properties for self-medication. The orangutan, named Rakus, was seen chewing leaves of the plant Akar Kuning, known for its pain-relieving, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties, and applying the resulting paste to a wound on his cheek. This behavior highlights a significant aspect of animal behavior, showing that wild animals can utilize natural resources for self-healing and that Akar Kuning is sometimes used to relieve malaria symptoms.
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Yes • 50%
No • 50%
Yes • 50%
No • 50%
Yes • 50%
No • 50%
Use of different plants • 33%
Use of non-plant materials • 33%
No new behaviors • 34%
No expansion • 25%
Local expansion only • 25%
National expansion • 25%
International aid for expansion • 25%
Borneo • 25%
Sumatra • 25%
Both Borneo and Sumatra • 25%
Neither • 25%