Sex-related anti-nociceptive activity of a flavonoid-based formulated extract from citrus peels (Gold Lotion): new insights into a rat model

Inflammatory pain is a worldwide health problem, affecting primarily women. Nonetheless, most research conducted in this field has involved male subjects, and only 10% of the results have been obtained using females. Gold Lotion (GL) is a formulated product made from the peels of six citrus fruits that have been proven, via experimental data, to possess several biological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antibacterial activities. This research aims to investigate the response to GL administration in two models of peripheral inflammation to assess potential sex differences. Carrageenan was used to induce mechanical allodynia and maximal edema within hours, serving as a model of acute inflammation, while Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) was used to obtain similar results within days, resulting in a model of chronic inflammation. Acute GL administration reduced mechanical allodynia in both models and both sexes, with no anti-inflammatory effects observed. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of GL to alleviate inflammatory pain in both males and females, thereby broadening its therapeutic applications.