Cannabis sativa Root Extract Exerts Anti-Nociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Effects via Endocannabinoid Pathway...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Product Chemistry
• Pain Research

Background:

• Traditional use of *Cannabis sativa* root for pain and inflammation.
• Limited research on the pharmacological properties of *Cannabis sativa* root due to low cannabinoid levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of *Cannabis sativa* root (CSREA).
• Explore the molecular mechanisms underlying CSREA's effects on pain and inflammation.

Main Methods:

• In vivo rodent pain models: formalin and acetic acid-induced nociception in mice.
• Carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats.
• Measurement of inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β) and gene expression (SCN9A, ASIC1A, TACR1, FAAH, MAGL, DAGL).

Main Results:

• CSREA significantly reduced pain behaviors in formalin and acetic acid tests.
• CSREA suppressed paw edema and inflammation in rats, comparable to diclofenac.
• CSREA lowered serum IL-6 and IL-1β levels and modulated pain-related gene expression and endocannabinoid metabolism enzymes.

Conclusions:

• CSREA exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects.
• The therapeutic potential of CSREA may involve modulation of the endocannabinoid system.
• CSREA shows promise as a natural agent for pain and inflammation management.