Liverworts as a hidden secret for soothing inflammation and alleviating pain

Bryophytes, particularly liverworts, are known for producing bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. In this review, we highlight the anti-inflammatory activities of liverworts, focusing on their ability to synthesize cannabinoids, compounds previously identified in only two genera. We explore the pharmacological parallels between liverwort cannabinoids and those from Cannabis sativa, emphasizing molecular similarities and interactions with the endocannabinoid system. Despite the promising nature of these compounds, there is a marked scarcity of studies exploring the pharmacological applications of liverwort-derived cannabinoids. This gap in research underscores the need for further investigation into their therapeutic potential. Additionally, we propose that cannabinoids or similar compounds may be more widespread in liverwort taxa than currently recognized, hypothesizing that other orders could also harbor these bioactive molecules. The potential discovery of new cannabinoids in liverworts could offer novel avenues for pharmacological exploitation. We conclude by calling for expanded chemical analyses to uncover more liverwort species with medicinally relevant compounds, which may reveal broader anti-inflammatory applications and therapeutic benefits.