Exploring the Role of Mentha in Gut Microbiota: A Modern Perspective of an Ancient Herb.

Abstract

Gut microbiota includes the microbes present in the gut; these microbes are an essential component in maintaining a healthy gut. Gut microbiota has a wide range of functions, including effects on colonization, pathogen resistance, intestinal epithelial maintenance, metabolizing food and pharmaceutical chemicals, and influencing immunological functions. Every disease associated with the gut starts due to a disbalance in the composition of the gut microorganisms and can be managed by balancing the composition of gut bacteria using various herbal remedies. Mentha herbs are a variety of perennial herbs that are grown commercially in various parts of the world. Mentha is a potent herb that shows anticholinergic action and can block PGE2 and GM1 receptors and interact with cholera toxins; it is used traditionally in different systems of medicines to treat various gastrointestinal diseases associated with the gut. Mentha herbs have potent bactericidal, viricidal, and fungicidal properties. Mentha has been used to cure stomach and digestion issues as well as to treat a variety of disorders. This review article summarizes diseases associated with the gut, the composition, and function of gut microbiota, and mentha's effectiveness along with its extraction methods and traditional uses. Research findings have revealed mentha to be an essential source against a wide range of diseases, especially gastrointestinal disorders. From its ayurvedic claims to its present use, it has been confirmed to be clinically effective for human health. Mentha-based products are marketed in the form of oils, capsules, powder, etc. The present work describes the mechanism of action along with the bioactives present in this well-known herb from Ayurveda.