Document Type : Review article

Authors

• Parisa Ziarati ¹
• Nastaran Kazemivash ²

¹ Islamic Azad University Tehran Medical Sciences

² Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran,

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, idiopathic, and irreversible disorder affecting the intestines, commonly presenting as Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Although the precise cause remains unknown, substantial evidence points to genetic predisposition, environmental factors, nutritional influences, and immune system dysfunction as significant contributors to disease development and progression. Furthermore, research highlights the impact of oxidative stress, along with viral, microbial, and parasitic infections, in aggravating IBD symptoms. While no definitive cure exists, various therapeutic approaches ranging from traditional medications to innovative biologic treatments are employed to manage and reduce symptoms. Over recent decades, standard options such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators have been widely used, with biologic agents like infliximab offering additional benefits for some patients. Nonetheless, the limitations of these therapies emphasize the pressing need for more effective and alternative strategies. In this regard, ethnomedicinal studies have increasingly investigated plant-based remedies for inflammatory conditions, with notable attention given to the Lamiaceae family due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties. This review explores the therapeutic potential of approximately 37 Lamiaceae species, assessing their role in IBD management and their viability as complementary or alternative options to existing treatments.

Keywords

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Crohn’s disease (UC)
• Essential Oils and Extracts
• Treatment
• Lamiaceae family

Main Subjects

• Extraction