Cannabis sativa: A look at protozoa, helminths, insect vectors, and pests

Active principles extracted from plants, such as essential oils, have been commonly described in the literature as therapeutic targets for numerous pathological conditions. Cannabis sativa, which has an ancient and peculiar history, has been used for various purposes, from recreational to compounds of pharmacotherapeutic and industrial importance, such as pesticides based on this plant. It is a plant that contains approximately 500 described cannabinoid compounds and is the target of in vitro and in vivo studies at different locations. This review clarifies the role of cannabinoid compounds in parasitic infections caused by helminths and protozoa. In addition, this study briefly presented the use of C. sativa constituents in the formulation of pesticides for vector control, as the latter topic is justified by the economic burden faced by several regions where vector-borne diseases are a troubling reality. Studies involving cannabis compounds with pesticidal potential should be encouraged, especially those that evaluate their effectiveness against the different life cycles of insects, seeking to interrupt vector proliferation after egg laying. Actions aimed at the management and cultivation of plant species with ecologically correct pharmacotherapeutic and pesticide potentials are becoming urgent.

Automated summary

Active principles from plants, such as essential oils, have been widely studied as therapeutic targets for various diseases. Cannabis sativa, with its rich history, has been used for recreational purposes as well as for its pharmacotherapeutic and industrial compounds. This review discusses the role of cannabinoid compounds in parasitic infections and the use of C. sativa constituents in formulating pesticides for vector control. Encouraging studies on cannabis compounds with pesticidal potential and promoting the cultivation of eco-friendly plant species with pharmacotherapeutic and pesticide potentials are crucial.