Researchers in Uganda have observed chimpanzees using medicinal plants to treat not only their own wounds but also those of other chimpanzees.
This altruistic behavior, documented in the Budongo Forest, shows chimpanzees applying chewed leaves to injuries of unrelated individuals.
The study, published in 'Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution,' highlights the potential for understanding the origins of medical systems.
Elodie Freymann from the University of Oxford led the research, focusing on the Sonso and Waibira chimpanzee communities in the Budongo Forest.
The chimpanzees often sustained injuries from conflicts within the group or from contact with human-made obstacles.
Researchers recorded instances of chimpanzees applying chewed leaves to wounds, even those of unrelated individuals.
Chimpanzees also exhibited hygienic behaviors, such as removing debris from wounds and cleaning them with moss.
This behavior suggests that chimpanzees recognize the needs of others and act intentionally to help them.
The findings indicate that empathy and pro-social behavior may be more widespread among non-human primates than previously thought.
This research not only sheds light on the origins of medical systems but also suggests that compassion extends beyond humans.