In a study led by Leresche Even, researchers examined the possible therapeutic properties of plants eaten by western lowland gorillas in Gabon. These gorillas reside in the Moukalaba Doudou National Park and consume a variety of plants that are traditionally used for medicinal purposes by nearby communities. Specifically the team studied four plants Ceiba pentandra, Myrianthus arboreus, Ficus species, and Milicia excelsa to assess their efficacy in combating bacteria and alleviating oxidative stress within the body.
Why Study These Plants?
Western lowland gorillas have a habit of consuming particular plants that contribute to their well being. This behavior known as zoopharmacognosy, involves animals such as gorillas instinctively selecting plants with medicinal qualities. What’s fascinating is that some of these plants eaten by gorillas are utilized in human traditional medicine practices by local communities. As concerns grow over bacteria resistant to antibiotics, researchers are turning to natural remedies. There is a possibility that the plants ingested by these gorillas might provide a breakthrough solution.
What Did the Study Find?
The scientists examined the bark of four plants to determine their antibacterial properties and ability to combat oxidative stress, a factor linked to conditions such as cancer and heart disease. They observed that each of the four plants demonstrated strong effects in terms of fighting bacteria and acting as antioxidants suggesting their potential in the creation of medications.
Antioxidant Properties: Plants like Ficus species and Milicia excelsa had the strongest antioxidant effects. This means they are good at neutralizing harmful molecules that can damage cells in the body, which is important for preventing diseases.
Antibacterial Effects: The plant extracts were also tested against harmful, multidrug-resistant bacteria like E. coli. Both Ceiba pentandra and Ficus species were especially good at stopping the growth of these dangerous bacteria.
The study also found that these plants contain important compounds like phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins, which are known for their health benefits, including fighting infections and reducing inflammation.
Balancing Medicine and Nature
While the discovery of medicines from nature is thrilling, it comes with risks. Studies such as this one demonstrate that plants eaten by gorillas have potential benefits for human medicine. However, the pharmaceutical companies and industries may be tempted to exploit these plants for profit as they recognize their economic value. This excessive harvesting could result in the habitats of gorillas and other wildlife being at risk.
The destruction of forests for economic purposes could bring animals like gorillas one step closer to extinction as their habitats are cleared to generate income. It is crucial to strike a balance between scientific exploration and conservation efforts, ensuring the protection of ecosystems that are not only important for supporting wildlife but also provide us with resources for health and medicine.
This study opens up possibilities for creating therapies against various illnesses and antibiotic resistant bacteria. However striking a balance between leveraging these findings and preserving the environment is essential. It is important to promote sustainable methods in order to protect both the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0306957
Credit: Leresche Even Doneilly Oyaba Yinda, Richard Onanga, Cédric Sima Obiang, Herman Begouabe, Etienne François Akomo-Okoue, Judicaël Obame-Nkoghe, Roland Mitola, Joseph-Privat Ondo, Guy-Roger Ndong Atome, Louis-Clément Obame Engonga, Ibrahim, Joanna M. Setchell, Sylvain Godreuil