Assessment of Moroccan Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil: Chemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antioxidant, Toxicological, and Antinociceptive Effects

Abstract

Cannabis sativa L. is a plant known locally as "El kif" of the Cannabaceae family. This study aimed to conduct a chemical analysis of Cannabis sativa seed oil (CSSO) and assess its acute toxicity, antioxidant properties, and analgesic effects. The chemical analysis was performed using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to identify its fatty acids (FAs) content. Antioxidant activity was evaluated in vitro using the DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging method and the FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) method. Concurrently, acute toxicity, along with antinociceptive activity, was studied through three distinct animal models: writhing test, formalin test, and hot plate test. The results revealed that linoleic acid, oleic acid, α‐linolenic acid, and palmitic acid were the main components of CSSO. The LD50 of CSSO was greater than 5 g/kg, indicating low toxicity. Additionally, CSSO exhibited a significant content of flavonoids and total polyphenols, along with notable antioxidant activity with values. The results indicated a significant increase in thermal stimulus latency, a reduction in the number of writhes induced by acetic acid, and a decrease in licking time in both phases of the formalin test. In conclusion, this study suggests promising results for CSSO emphasizing its potential as a therapeutic agent.