In Uganda’s Budongo Forest, scientists watched wild chimpanzees do something astonishing: chew up medicinal leaves and dab the paste onto open wounds. Some even treated others, not just themselves. 

The plants they chose are known for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving powers. It’s one of the clearest examples yet of animals using natural remedies on purpose.

In a fascinating twist, chimpanzees have been observed catching dark, flying insects, crushing them between their lips and gently applying the paste directly to open wounds—sometimes even on other chimps. While researchers haven't yet identified the exact insect species, the topical use appears to carry anti-inflammatory and antiseptic benefits, helping to reduce infection and soothe. 

This marks one of the rarest examples in the animal kingdom of cross-species medicinal use and suggests a complex blend of self-medication and social caregiving.