Vestiges are organs and structures that have lost their original function during evolution, but are still present in the body. For a long time, they were considered biological "mistakes" of nature, but are they really that useless? Modern research shows that many of them continue to perform important tasks. Let's figure out which human vestiges we know about and whether they should be removed.
What rudiments do humans have?
The human body contains many traces of the evolutionary past. Here are the main vestigial structures:
- Appendix – a remnant of an intestinal appendage that helped ancestors digest plant foods.
- Coccyx – a rudimentary tail that ancient primates used for balance and grasping.
- Wisdom teeth – extra molars that used to help chew tough foods.
- Auricular muscles – allow some people to wiggle their ears, but do not improve hearing.
- Lunate fold of the eye – a remnant of the third eyelid that protects the eye in reptiles and birds.
- Goose bumps – a rudimentary reflex that raised the fur of animals for warmth and intimidation enemies.
- The grasping reflex in infants – used to help babies cling to their mothers.
Rudiments and atavisms: what's the difference?
The question is often asked: "what is the difference between rudiments and atavisms?" Are they the same thing? Or are there some serious differences? Rudiments are often confused with atavisms, but these are different phenomena:
- Rudiments – all people have them, but they almost don’t work (for example, the appendix, the coccyx).
- Atavisms – rare manifestations of the characteristics of distant ancestors (for example, the birth of a child with a tail or extra nipples).
Rudiments remain in evolution, since they do not interfere with the body, and atavisms are random genetic failures.
Human rudiments in order of popularity
Some rudiments are known to everyone, while others are few have heard of. Here is their popularity rating:
- The appendix is the most discussed vestige in the intestines, and in the whole body as a whole.
- Wisdom teeth – cause problems for millions of people.
- The tailbone is a vestige of the tail that no one uses.
- Goose bumps – appear in everyone, but are meaningless.
- Ear muscles – can move, but to no avail.
- The semilunar fold of the eye is a little-known, but interesting vestige.
- The grasping reflex in infants is important, but quickly disappears.
Useful rudiments
Some rudiments still perform important functions:
Appendix – helps develop immunity and maintain beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
Recent studies confirm that the appendix is not just a rudiment, but an important element of the immune system. Bursa-dependent lymphocytes (B-lymphocytes) are formed in its tissues, which play a key role in protecting the body.
What functions does the appendix perform in the immune system?
- B-lymphocyte maturation – the lymphoid tissue of the appendix serves as a platform for training these immune cells, helping them effectively fight pathogens.
- Reservoir of beneficial bacteria – after intestinal infections, the appendix helps restore normal microflora.
- Local immune protection – participates in counteracting harmful microorganisms in the intestine.
Previously, this organ was considered unnecessary, but now it is removed only for medical reasons (for example, with inflammation), since it plays a significant role in the body's immune response.
Coccyx – serves as an attachment point for the pelvic muscles.
Semilunar fold of the eye – helps drain tears and protects eye.
Tonsils (palatine tonsils) - used to be considered a vestige, but are now recognized as part of the immune system. Remember the times when they were often removed just like that, just in case? Yes, in some countries it was common!
Tonsils: immune defenders or a useless vestige?
The palatine tonsils, known as glands, are paired organs of the immune system located in the pharynx. They perform an important function of protecting the body, especially in childhood, but with chronic inflammation they can become a source of problems.
The main functions of the tonsils
- Immune protection - the lymphoid tissue contained in the tonsils produces B- and T-lymphocytes that help fight viruses and bacteria.
- Immune development - at an early age, the tonsils help train the immune system, helping the body recognize harmful microorganisms.
- Barrier against infections - they delay and neutralize pathogens, preventing them from entering the respiratory tract.
Vestigial or irreplaceable organ?
Previously, it was believed that the tonsils are a vestige, since they decrease in size with age, and their removal does not have a serious effect on the body. However, modern research proves their importance for the immune system, especially in childhood, when the body is actively forming defense mechanisms.
When is removal required?
- Frequent sore throats (more than 5-7 episodes per year).
- Chronic tonsillitis with complications.
- Respiratory failure (for example, due to hypertrophy of the tonsils).
If the tonsils do not cause problems, it is better to save them, since they continue to perform protective functions, helping the body resist infections.
Useless rudiments
Although some rudiments have residual functions, they do not bring much benefit:
- Wisdom teeth – often cause pain and inflammation.
- Ear muscles – do not improve hearing and do not help in communication.
- Goose bumps – do not warm, since a person does not have thick fur.
What to do and how to live?
Most rudiments do not require special attention. However, if they begin to create problems, you should consult a doctor. For example:
- If the appendix is inflamed, it needs to be removed immediately.
- If the wisdom teeth are growing incorrectly, it is better to remove them in advance.
- If the tailbone hurts after an injury, treatment will be required.
Removed rudiment: consequences for life
Modern medicine actively removes problematic rudiments. But what are the consequences?
- Appendix removal – the immune system is slightly weakened, but the body adapts.
- Tonsil removal – may increase the risk of respiratory diseases.
- Wisdom teeth removal – improves oral health and relieves pain.
- Coccyx removal (rarely necessary) – may affect posture and balance.
What can be added here? That rudiments are not just “evolutionary errors”, but traces of our past. Some of them continue to be useful, while others only create inconveniences. It is important to understand their role and consult a doctor if they begin to interfere with normal life.