Effect of melilotus extract on lung injury by upregulating the expression of cannabinoid CB2 receptors in septic rats

Abstract Background: M. Suaveolens Ledeb has long been used in China to treat inflammatory infectious diseases. Melilotus is extracted from Melilotus Suaveolens Ledeb and its therapeutic potential is associated with its anti-inflammatory activity. However, the precise mechanisms underlying its effects are unknown. This study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of melilotus extract in a rat cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced animal model of acute lung injury (ALI). Methods: A sepsis model was induced by CLP-like lung inflammation. Two