Self-medicating prevents disease: rabbits

The ears of rabbits assist in Vitamin D acquisition because they have an oil on the surface that transforms to Vitamin D in sunlight, which is then ingested as the rabbits clean themselves.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

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Biomimetic Application Ideas

Natural sunscreens that don't block vitamin D synthesis, topical supplements for vitamin D deficiencies.

[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Even rabbits have a therapeutic trick or two - in their case, behind the ears. Mammals need vitamin D - which works with calcium to make healthy bones - in order to prevent such problems as fractures, as well as to keep diseases such as rickets at bay. It is well known that in mammals this vitamin is synthesized when the skin is exposed to sunlight. As noted by John Downer in SuperNatural (1999), rabbits put this principle to good medicinal use when they wash behind their ears with their paws. The oil on the outer surface of the rabbits' extra-long ears contains a chemical that transforms into vitamin D when there is enough sunlight. And when rabbits lick their paws after washing behind their ears, they transfer this vitamin supply to their mouths and, therefore, into their digestive system." (Shuker 2001:218)

About the inspiring organism

Leporidae
Leporidae

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Natural sunscreens that don't block vitamin D synthesis, topical supplements for vitamin D deficiencies.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Health

References

Shuker, KPN. 2001. The Hidden Powers of Animals: Uncovering the Secrets of Nature. London: Marshall Editions Ltd. 240 p.

Self-medicating prevents disease: rabbits

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