Salvia divinorum: from recreational hallucinogenic use to analgesic and anti-inflammatory action.
Journal of Pain Research January 1, 2019 Ulises Coffeen, Francisco Pellicer 33 citations
Salvia divinorum, a plant native to southwest Mexico, has been traditionally used for inflammatory conditions and pain. Its main active component, salvinorin A (SA), is a potent hallucinogen that acts on κ opioid and cannabinoid type 1 receptors. Recent research has uncovered the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind SA's anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. However, due to SA's short duration and hallucinogenic properties, current research aims to develop analogues that provide long-lasting pain relief and reduced inflammation without psychoactive effects. This review examines the roles of S. divinorum, SA, and its analogues, focusing on analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties while also addressing psychoactive effects.