Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGD), now known as disorders of gut-brain interactions (DGBI), are characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms linked to motility issues, visceral sensitivity, intestinal permeability, immune activation, neuroendocrine function, CNS processing, and gut microbiota. These disorders include symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, fullness, nausea, and vomiting, associated with conditions like IBS and functional dyspepsia. The complex pathophysiology of FGDs is not fully understood, affecting one-third of gastroenterology consultations. Diagnosis and treatment follow Rome Foundation criteria, focusing on symptom management rather than underlying mechanisms. Nearly half the population will meet FGD criteria at some point, with significant overlap in symptoms and conditions. The gut microbiota's role is crucial, affecting homeostasis and linked to FGDs through dysbiosis. Treatments include antibiotics, dietary changes, and fecal transplants. Prebiotics, including medicinal plant extracts like wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.), show promise. Wild thyme has traditionally treated respiratory and gastrointestinal issues and contains phenolic compounds with potential spasmolytic and antioxidant effects. Preclinical studies show wild thyme extract benefits in inflammation, IBS, and metabolic syndrome models. Recent human trials indicate improvements in gut regularity and microbiota. This study proposes wild thyme extract as a dietary supplement to benefit digestive health in FGDs, hypothesizing its immunomodulatory and prebiotic properties can reduce inflammation and restore microbiota balance. Specific objectives include analyzing microbiome impact, barrier function, inflammation, and identifying prognostic biomarkers to predict treatment response.
Age range
18 Years – 75 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Evaluation of the composition of the intestinal microbiome
Timeframe: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 8 weeks