Abstract <p><i>Salvia blancoana</i> subsp. <i>mesatlantica</i> (Lamiaceae) is an endemic Moroccan sage with potential medicinal properties, traditionally used as leaf decoctions or infusions to manage digestive and nervous disorders. This study aimed to evaluate both the prophylactic and therapeutic anti-inflammatory activities of its aqueous leaf extract (100&#xa0;mg/kg) using an in vivo carrageenan-induced paw edema model in Wistar rats. The anti-inflammatory response was assessed through paw circumference measurements at various time points (2, 4, 6, and 12&#xa0;h post-carrageenan injection), histopathological analysis, and blood-based inflammatory biomarkers. The extract exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity, with maximal inhibition of paw edema observed at the sixth hour, corresponding to the peak inflammatory phase. Histological examination of paw tissues revealed a marked decrease in inflammatory cell infiltration and minimal multifocal edema in extract-treated rats compared to the control group. Neutrophil counts were significantly lower in the treated groups, suggesting a modulatory effect on immune cell recruitment. Additionally, hematological and biochemical analyses indicated reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and increased albumin concentrations, further supporting the extract’s anti-inflammatory efficacy. These effects are attributed to the bioactive compounds present in <i>S. blancoana</i> subsp. <i>mesatlantica</i>, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are known to modulate inflammatory pathways. The findings highlight the potential of this subspecies as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications and suggesting its suitability for future pharmaceutical development. Further studies are required to elucidate its precise mechanisms of action and clinical applicability.</p> Highlights <p><UnorderedList Mark="Bullet"> <ItemContent> <p>Salvia blancoana extract reduces carrageenan-induced paw edema in Wistar rats.</p> </ItemContent> <ItemContent> <p>The extract demonstrates dose-dependent inhibition of inflammation.</p> </ItemContent> <ItemContent> <p>Hematological analyses reveal reduced leukocyte counts and CRP levels in extract-treated groups.</p> </ItemContent> <ItemContent> <p>Histopathological examination shows marked reduction of inflammatory cell infiltration.</p> </ItemContent> <ItemContent> <p>The anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids.</p> </ItemContent> </UnorderedList></p> Graphical abstract <p></p>