# Citral, a Natural Activator of the Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2, Can Help Combat Pain and Inflammatory Conditions > **Author:** Benjamin Caplan, MD (ABFM Board Certified, MA Lic. #240562, NPI: 1962722637) > **Publisher:** CED Clinic (https://cedclinic.com) > **Canonical URL:** https://cedclinic.com/citral-cannabinoid-receptor-2-activation-pain-relief/ > **Published:** 2020-11-03T14:07:17-04:00 | **Last Modified / Clinically Audited:** 2026-09-28T11:17:22-04:00 > **Clinical Summary:** Explore how citral cannabinoid receptor 2 activation helps reduce pain and inflammation naturally by targeting CB2 receptors. --- ### Citral Inhibits the Inflammatory Response and Hyperalgesia in Mice: The Role of TLR4, TLR2/Dectin-1, and CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor/ATP-Sensitive K+ Channel Pathways ​ In Summary The [endocannabinoid system](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-fear-extinction/) has long been a target for treatment of many immunoinflammatory diseases due to its role in regulating the body’s pain and immune responses. Because the [cannabinoid receptor type 1](https://cedclinic.com/mediation-of-the-cannabinoid-receptor-type-1-can-enhance-the-antidepressant-powers-of-conventional-therapy/) (CB1) is ubiquitously expressed in the brain, pharmaceutical compounds targeting this member of the [endocannabinoid system](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-fear-extinction/) often have adverse effects on patients’ mental state. In contrast, cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is less abundant in the brain while still present throughout other organ systems; thus, compounds that regulate functions of this receptor constitute promising drug candidates for the management of immunoinflammatory conditions and pain states. Citral, a bioactive component in lemongrass, is one such compound. Most noticeably, research suggests that through activation of the [CB2 receptor](https://cedclinic.com/s-caryophyllene-a-terpine-found-in-cannabis-demonstrates-therapeutic-potential-in-a-mouse-model-of-ms/), this molecule mitigates edema, or the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the tissues, and thermal allodynia, or the pain occurs due to a mild change of temperature of the skin – both are common conditions caused by inflammatory agents. Not only do these findings establish citral as a promising, innovative natural medicinal agent for pain and inflammatory treatment, but they also emphasize the intricate link between the endocannabinoid and immune systems [More access here](https://cedclinic.com/) [https://cedclinic.com/contact/](https://cedclinic.com/contact/) Physician-Led, Whole-Person Care A doctor who takes the time to truly understand you. Personal care that starts with listening and is guided by experience and ingenuity. 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[Read the Review](https://cedclinic.com/cannabinoid-treatments-rheumatic-diseases-efficacy-safety/) [Targeting the Cannabinoid Receptors to Regulate Blood Glucose Level and Body Weight](https://cedclinic.com/cannabinoid-receptors-blood-glucose-regulation/) Explore how [cannabinoid receptors](https://cedclinic.com/the-endocannabinoid-system-controls-various-functions-of-the-olfactory-circuit/) influence metabolic processes including blood glucose and body weight regulation. [Learn More](https://cedclinic.com/cannabinoid-receptors-blood-glucose-regulation/) [Endocannabinoid System in Mental Health Treatment Research](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-mental-health-research/) An overview of research on the endocannabinoid system's role in mental health treatments and therapeutic potential. [Explore Research](https://cedclinic.com/endocannabinoid-system-mental-health-research/) Have thoughts on this? 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