Evaluation of the Effects of Cannabis sativa on the Body Weight and Uterus of Female Albino Rats

Background and Objective:Cannabis sativa is one of the most widely cultivated and consumed illicit substances worldwide. While studies have shown its adverse effects on neuronal disability, systemic neuropathy, impaired fetal development, and male reproductive malfunction, its impact on female reproductive health remains underexplored. This study evaluated the histological and physiological effects of graded doses of aqueous Cannabis sativa leaf extract on the uterus of female Albino rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four female rats were divided into 4 groups of 6 rats per group (n = 6), with groups 2 to 4 receiving 250, 350, and 450 mg/kg respectively of the extract, while the group 1 (control) received only distilled water. The extract was administered orally for 21 days. Body weight and uterine weight were measured at the start and end of the experiment, after which uterine tissues were harvested, weighed, and processed for histological examination using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Verhoeff’s Van Gieson staining. Statistical analysis was performed using One-way ANOVA with Turkey’s post-hoctest (p<0.05). Results: Results showed significant dose-dependent reductions in uterine weight and alterations in hormone levels, with the highest dose group exhibiting the greatest decline in estrogen and progesterone levels (p<0.05). Histological analysis revealed degenerative changes, including epithelial thinning, vascular congestion, inflammatory infiltration, and disrupted collagen fiber distribution, particularly at 450 mg/kg. Conclusion: These findings suggested that Cannabis sativa exposure adversely affects uterine morphology and function, potentially impairing fertility. The study highlights the need for further research into the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes and the long-term reproductive consequences of cannabis use in females.