CANNABIS SATIVA AS A THERAPEUTIC ALTERNATIVE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PAIN AND INFLAMMATION IN AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES.

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze scientific evidence regarding the use of *Cannabis sativa* in managing pain and inflammation in patients with autoimmune diseases, specifically Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Interest in medicinal cannabis has grown due to the therapeutic potential of its cannabinoids—particularly cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound associated with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. This research is qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive in nature, conducted through a literature review of scientific articles published in national and international databases. The study analyzed the pharmacological properties of CBD, its effects on immune system modulation, and its therapeutic application in autoimmune diseases, as well as regulatory aspects concerning the medicinal use of cannabis in Brazil. Results indicated that CBD may contribute to reducing chronic pain, inflammation, and the immune hyperactivity characteristic of these conditions, thereby improving clinical symptoms and patients' quality of life. Evidence also suggests a potential therapeutic effect in modulating inflammatory and immune responses. However, the study identified a need for expanded clinical research—particularly long-term studies—and the standardization of therapeutic protocols to ensure greater efficacy and safety in the medicinal use of cannabis. It is concluded that *Cannabis sativa* shows promising potential as a complementary therapeutic alternative for treating inflammatory autoimmune diseases.