IN THE Indonesian jungle, scientists witnessed a fascinating sight involving Rakus, a Sumatran orangutan, and his inventive approach to healing a cheek wound.
Rakus, likely nursing an injury from a spat with a neighbour, caught the attention of primatologist Dr Isabelle Laumer, who told BBC that what she saw was nothing short of astonishing.
For three consecutive days, Rakus followed a curious medical routine.
He'd snack on a leaf for 13 minutes, then, in a comedic twist, paused mid-chew, to apply the leaf to his wound like a makeshift Band-Aid, and repeat for several minutes.
The result - a remarkable improvement in his cheek wound's condition.
The secret to Rakus's success?
A humble jungle leaf boasting potent medicinal properties, acting as a natural remedy.
What amused researchers most was Rakus' methodical approach to his own wound.
He didn't just slap the leaf on; he carefully layered it with the finesse of an artist.
As for Rakus's inspiration, it remains a mystery.
Perhaps he's a fan of wildlife documentaries or simply a natural problem solver with a flair for the dramatic.
Regardless, Rakus's antics added a touch of whimsy to the world of primatology, reminding us that sometimes, the most unexpected pharmacological solutions can be found in nature's toolkit.
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