Science Weekly The incredible world of animal medicine
22 snips
Jun 3, 2025 Jaap de Roode, a biology professor at Emory University and author of 'Doctors by Nature', dives into the remarkable world of animal medicine. He shares how monarch butterflies utilize toxic milkweeds for self-medication. The discussion reveals how wood ants and cats instinctively use natural substances for healing. De Roode also highlights fascinating co-evolution between caterpillars and parasites, as well as the self-healing practices of bears and domesticated animals. His insights illustrate the deep connections between animal behavior and human medicine.
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Monarchs Using Milkweed Medicine
- Monarch butterflies eat toxic milkweed which reduces their parasite infection.
- This suggests they use plants as medicine to heal themselves when sick.
Plants' Toxins as Animal Medicine
- Plants have secondary chemicals that are toxins used for defense against threats.
- Animals use these toxins as medicine to kill or repel parasites and pathogens.
Animals Use Natural Antibiotics
- Swiss wood ants collect resin and mix it in their nests to prevent infections.
- Birds use aromatic plants and cigarette butts in nests to repel parasites like ticks and mites.
