Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2025

An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota
Published on: July 31, 2019
Gut microbial modulation by culinary herbs and spices
Sasha M Dahl1, Vivien Rolfe2, Gemma E Walton1
1Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Reading, RG6 6DZ, UK.
Abstract:
Culinary herbs and spices have previously been recognised for their potential impact on health through antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. They may also be promotors of positive microbial modulation by stimulating beneficial gut bacteria during fermentation, increasing the production of short chain fatty acids and thereby exhibiting a prebiotic effect. In the present paper, current literature around herb and spice consumption, gut microbiota modulation and prospective health benefits were reviewed. Herb and spice consumption can positively modulate gut microbes and possibly play an important role in inflammation related afflictions such as obesity. Current literature indicates that few human studies have been conducted to confirm the impact of herb and spice consumption on gut microbiota in connection with prospective health outcomes and inconsistencies in conclusions therefore remain.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
Microorganisms in Agriculture and Food industry
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
Biological Methods for Microbial Control
What is Monogastric Digestion?
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing

