Abstract

The human gut microbiota is a complex and dynamic microbial ecosystem that plays a central role in health and 
disease. Dysbiosis, caused by factors such as diet, antibiotics, and stress, is associated with metabolic, 
inflammatory, immune, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Medicinal plants represent a promising strategy for 
modulating gut microbiota due to their diverse phytochemicals with antimicrobial, prebiotic, antioxidant, and 
immunomodulatory properties. Compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and sulfur
containing molecules can selectively inhibit pathogens while stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria and 
enhancing short-chain fatty acid and vitamin production. Well-studied plants, including garlic (Allium sativum), 
ginger (Zingiber officinale), turmeric (Curcuma longa), peppermint (Mentha piperita), and chamomile (Matricaria 
chamomilla), demonstrate the ability to reshape microbial communities, strengthen the gut barrier, reduce 
inflammation, and influence systemic functions, including immunity and mental health. Preclinical and clinical 
studies highlight both antimicrobial and prebiotic effects, though variability in plant composition, dosage, and host 
microbiota remains a challenge. Standardization, mechanistic studies, and integration with probiotics and 
prebiotics are necessary to advance the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants as microbiota modulators.