Unravelling the gut-lung axis: insights into microbiome interactions and Traditional Indian Medicine's perspective on optimal health

FEMS Microbiol Ecol. 2023 Sep 19;99(10):fiad103. doi: 10.1093/femsec/fiad103.

Abstract

The microbiome of the human gut is a complex assemblage of microorganisms that are in a symbiotic relationship with one another and profoundly influence every aspect of human health. According to converging evidence, the human gut is a nodal point for the physiological performance matrixes of the vital organs on several axes (i.e. gut-brain, gut-lung, etc). As a result of COVID-19, the importance of gut-lung dysbiosis (balance or imbalance) has been realised. In view of this, it is of utmost importance to develop a comprehensive understanding of the microbiome, as well as its dysbiosis. In this review, we provide an overview of the gut-lung axial microbiome and its importance in maintaining optimal health. Human populations have successfully adapted to geophysical conditions through traditional dietary practices from around the world. In this context, a section has been devoted to the traditional Indian system of medicine and its theories and practices regarding the maintenance of optimally customized gut health.

Keywords: COVID-19; Gut-lung axis; dysbiosis; microbiome; traditional medicine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Dysbiosis
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome*
  • Humans
  • Microbiota*