Visiting a doctor or taking over-the-counter medication when feeling unwell may appear to be uniquely human behaviors. However, as scientists continue to explore the natural world, they are discovering that the foundation of medicine – taking action to prevent or relieve illness – extends far beyond human existence. In fact, the concept of medicine is not exclusive to humans and has been observed in various animal species.

In his forthcoming book, Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes, and Other Animals Heal Themselves, Emory University biologist Jaap de Roode takes readers on an engaging and enlightening journey into the complex realm of animal self-medication. The book delves into the fascinating world of animal medication, showcasing the diverse ways in which animals heal themselves and their kin.

The book commences with de Roode’s research on monarch butterflies, which protect their young from parasites by laying eggs on milkweed plants containing higher levels of a particular toxin. De Roode then draws on the work of various scientists to illustrate how chimpanzees, ants, bees, and even domestic cats practice their own forms of medicine, highlighting the complexity and diversity of animal self-medication.

Gizmodo recently spoke with de Roode about his inspiration for the book, the prevalence of medication among animals, and the value of rediscovering lessons from the natural world that our ancestors once knew. The conversation has been edited for clarity and grammar.

Ed Cara, Gizmodo: What sparked your interest in writing a book about animal medication, and what motivated you to explore the topic beyond your work on monarch butterflies?

Jaap de Roode: The topic of animal medication is fascinating, and I have always been passionate about animals. Initially, I encountered resistance when I proposed that monarch butterflies use medication, which stemmed from the idea that animals must be highly intelligent and possess large brains to use medicine. I wanted to demonstrate that this is not the case and showcase the numerous animals that have remarkable abilities to medicate themselves, their offspring, and their siblings. It is exciting and essential to acknowledge this phenomenon, and I believe it is crucial for various reasons.

Gizmodo: You provide over a dozen examples of animal medication throughout the book. Nevertheless, it seems that we have only scratched the surface of this phenomenon. Do you anticipate that scientists will discover a multitude of other animals that practice medicine?

de Roode: The scientific study of animal medication has only been underway since the 1980s, when Mike Hoffman and others began investigating chimpanzees. Now, we are exploring various insects, and people are starting to think about this topic more seriously. Many of the examples described in the book were discovered serendipitously, but I hope to inspire people to look for these phenomena purposefully. For instance, I am currently exploring the possibility that mosquitoes may self-medicate as adults, which could have significant implications for our understanding of animal medication.

Gizmodo: A common theme in your book is the idea that modern scientists are often rediscovering lessons that people in the past learned from observing animals. How can both humans and animals benefit from learning more about animal medication?

de Roode: The most surprising aspect of writing this book was discovering how much knowledge we have lost over time. In Western society, we often believe that humans are separate from nature and must be unique. However, by recognizing that we are part of the natural world, we can benefit from the knowledge that people have accumulated over thousands of years. For example, traditional healers and shamans have developed medical treatments by observing animals, and even aspirin may have originated from people observing bears using willow tree bark. By studying animal medication, we can discover new treatments and improve animal welfare, ultimately leading to better lives for both humans and animals.

One notable example is the use of medicinal plants by livestock. When given the opportunity to choose their own diets, animals are capable of meeting their individual needs and healing themselves. This approach can reduce the need for antibiotics and anthelmintics, which contribute to drug resistance. Similarly, honey bees can medicate themselves, and by allowing them to do so, we can improve their health and reduce the reliance on external interventions.

By embracing the concept of animal medication, we can create a better world for both humans and animals. Happier animals lead to happier people, and by recognizing the intricate connections between species, we can work towards a more harmonious coexistence.

Gizmodo: Apart from your work on monarch butterflies, what is your favorite example of animal medication that you encountered while researching the book?

de Roode: My favorite story is about finches and sparrows using cigarette butts to prevent parasitic infestations in their nests. I had known about this research previously, but visiting Mexico and meeting the researchers, seeing the nests, and observing the birds was truly fascinating. It highlights the adaptability and ingenuity of animals, particularly those that thrive in urban environments. These birds can use alternative materials, such as nicotine plants, to achieve the same effect, demonstrating their remarkable ability to innovate and problem-solve.

Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes, and Other Animals Heal Themselves, published by Princeton University Press, will be available on March 4th.