Elephants in Kenya use plants to heal themselves and others
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In Kenya, African elephants seek out and consume dozens of plant species to treat illnesses in themselves and other members of their herds.
Researchers from Oxford University collaborated with local people, including park rangers and community elders, who have observed these behaviors for years. These observers confirmed that elephants select specific plants when they appear unwell, and mothers provide these plants to their calves.
The scientists identified 35 plant species used by the elephants, with local people recognizing medicinal properties in 25 of them. This discovery adds to growing evidence that animals use plants for healing, a behavior previously documented in birds, bears, primates, and other species. In 2024, other research teams observed chimpanzees eating plants to relieve pain and orangutans applying plant paste to wounds.
Elodie Freymann of Oxford University noted that the study raises questions about whether habitat destruction is depriving animals, and people, of important medicines.
