European Journal of Medicinal Plants

Cannabis sativa is an illegal substance with documented analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diarrheal properties. Numerous other cannabinoids found in cannabis have an impact on brain activity. So, the purpose of this study was to examine how cannabis sativa extract affected the cognito-motor activity in rats. Twenty-four (24) Wistar rats weighing between 80.53 and 100.49g were randomly divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D) of six animals each after a 14-day acclimatization period to laboratory conditions. Only food and water were provided to Group A. Groups B and C received an oral ethanolic extract of Cannabis sativa at doses of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg, respectively. Group D received an intraperitoneal dose of diazepam at a rate of 50 mg/kg. To ascertain the impact of the cannabis sativa extract on the neuro behavior of the rats, each animal in the four groups is subjected to an experimental test following each administration of the extract (the Barnes maze test, the beam walk test, and the inverted screen tests). The rats in groups B and C that received cannabis sativa extract showed a notable improvement in learning and memory, and the majority of the rats in group C who received cannabis sativa extract walked upright without stumbling. Group A, the control group, exhibited indicators of anxiety and panic but no discernible change in learning or memory. Due to muscle weakness, members of group D (standard drug group) were essentially inactive throughout the experiment, staggering and falling. It can be concluded that cannabis sativa's ethanolic leaf extract is not harmful, boosts brain functions, and promotes learning and memory when used sensibly and not abusively. Thus, it can be inferred that the plant may help with the treatment of several mental health conditions, such as anxiety.