Essential oils as a source of natural compounds for the modulation of intestinal physiology

Essential oils and their components have demonstrated significant therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antitumor activities. This thesis presents a series of studies conducted during the PhD, aimed at exploring the potential applications of various essential oil components in human health, with a particular focus on intestinal health. The studies address topics such as the properties related to irritable bowel syndrome, the effects on obesity, the antifungal activity against clinical strains of Candida spp., and the antitumor activities against colorectal cancer and glioblastoma. The experimental approach included both in vitro and in vivo models to assess the mechanisms of action and therapeutic efficacy, with special attention to microbiota modulation and molecular analysis of the active components. The overall objective was to deepen the understanding of the therapeutic potential of these natural substances by evaluating their mechanisms of action and efficacy in combination with other natural compounds, given the limited literature available on the subject.