Sumatran Orangutan Rakus Demonstrates Self-Treatment of Wound Using Medicinal Plant

A male Sumatran orangutan named Rakus residing in the protected rainforest area of Suaq Balimbing in Indonesia gained attention for his demonstrated self-treatment of a facial wound using a medicinal plant. Rakus appeared to choose a plant with known medical properties for pain relief, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant qualities to aid in his wound healing process. Through careful observation, researchers noted Rakus chewing the plant's leaves to create a liquid that was then applied to the wound, resembling a methodical approach similar to a wound treatment administered by medical professionals.

The primatologist and cognitive biologist, Isabelle Laumer, from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, reported that Rakus also consumed the plant, known as Akar Kuning or Fibraurea tinctoria, which is not commonly eaten by orangutans in the area. The unique behavior of Rakus in selectively treating his facial wound and the observed repeated applications of the plant material indicated intentional and conscious actions in his self-treatment process. This methodical approach led to the wound's successful healing within five days without any signs of infection, pointing out the potential cognitive capacities possessed by orangutans for such active wound treatment with plants.

The researchers highlighted the significance of this observation in shedding light on the cognitive abilities and potential learned behavior of orangutans, indicating the possibility of an ancient evolutionary link between orangutans and humans in terms of wound treatment practices. This instance provides valuable insights into the intellectual capabilities of orangutans and their cultural learnings, emphasizing their adaptability and problem-solving skills in utilizing natural resources for health-related practices.