In Vivo Evaluation of Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, Antidepressant and Cytotoxic potential of Moroccan Salvia verbenaca L. Extracts

The long-term use of synthetic drugs for treating chronic pain, inflammatory diseases, and depression is associated with various side effects. Salvia verbenaca is widely used in traditional medicine to alleviate pain and treat inflammation. This study aimed to identify the chemical compounds present in the ethanolic extract of S. verbenaca through a phytochemical analysis. The analgesic activity was assessed using two pain models induced by acetic acid and formalin in rats. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using a carrageenan-induced paw edema test. Additionally, the antidepressant effects were examined by measuring changes in immobility duration in the Forced Swim Test (FST) and the Tail Suspension Test (TST). Acute toxicity was also assessed. Both polyphenolic and hydroethanolic extracts demonstrated significant pain inhibition in the acetic acid-induced model, with inhibition rates of 56.98% for the hydroethanolic extract (400 mg/kg) and 59.54% for the polyphenolic extract (100 mg/kg). Furthermore, six hours after treatment, oral administration of the methanol extract led to a notable reduction in paw inflammation. The highest paw-licking time reduction (75%) was observed with the polyphenolic extract at 100 mg/kg. In both the TST and FST, S. verbenaca extracts significantly reduced immobility time compared to the control group. These findings highlight Salvia verbenaca as a rich source of bioactive molecules with promising analgesic, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties without exhibiting toxic effects.