Use of the Genus Satureja as Food Supplement: Possible Modulation of the Immune System via Intestinal Microbiota During SARS-CoV-2 Infection

ABSTRACT

Satureja genus belongs to the Lamiaceae family, and they are used in food products and by pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The chemical composition of Satureja is responsible for its pharmacological and phytochemical properties. Among the various biological activities, notably antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal, Satureja also has a potential antiviral activity. The existence of a microbiota modulation potential by Satureja in farming animals has also been reported. Viral pathologies are one of the main causes of disease in the world. It is commonly known that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the fight and progression of viral infection. Previous studies conducted on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have proved an imbalance in the intestinal and pulmonary microbiota via gut-lung axis. Knowing the properties of Satureja and its traditional use, one can suggest the possibility of using it as dietary supplement to modulate immune system in order to prevent and fight viral infections. The objective of this review is to reveal the potential impact of medicinal plants such as Satureja genus as a food supplement, on immune enhancing during SARS-CoV-2 infection and their relationships with the intestinal microbiota.