Medicinal Properties in the Diet of Tibetan Macaques at Mt. Huangshan: A Case for Self-Medication

Research on Tibetan macaques at Mount Huangshan reveals that up to 24% of their diet consists of plants with significant pharmacological potential, including antiparasitic, antibacterial, and neuroprotective properties. The study analyzed a 50-species food list for the YA1 troop, identifying 12 species that could serve as medicinal foods. While direct benefits remain unconfirmed, the findings suggest these macaques may engage in self-medication to address health challenges such as parasite infections or stress. This study advances understanding of primate dietary behavior and its potential role in maintaining health homeostasis.

Huffman, M. A., Sun, B.-H., & Li, J.-H. (2019). Medicinal Properties in the Diet of Tibetan Macaques at Mt. Huangshan: A Case for Self-Medication. The Behavioral Ecology of the Tibetan Macaque, 223–248. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-27920-2_12