Zataria multiflora (Z. multiflora), commonly known as Shirazi thyme, is a medicinal plant from the Lamiaceae family native to Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Traditionally, it has been used to treat various ailments.1,2 The therapeutic potential of Z. multiflora is attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, including thymol, carvacrol, linalool, and p-cymene, which exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Given its widespread use in traditional medicine, Z. multiflora has gained increasing attention as a complementary approach for managing oxidative stress-related conditions, such as ulcerative colitis (UC).3, 4, 5

UC is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon, characterized by recurrent episodes of mucosal inflammation, leading to symptoms such as persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramping, rectal bleeding, and urgency to defecate.6 The disease significantly impacts quality of life and has been rising in prevalence worldwide, including in Asian countries and Iran. By 2035, UC cases in Iran are projected to increase substantially, highlighting the need for effective and well-tolerated treatment options.7

Although the exact etiology of UC remains unclear, oxidative stress plays a crucial role in its pathogenesis. Increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and impaired antioxidant defense mechanisms contribute to mucosal damage, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and disease progression.8,9 Elevated levels of oxidative stress biomarkers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), thiol, and nitrite, have been observed in UC patients, indicating an imbalance between oxidative damage and antioxidant protection. Targeting oxidative stress may therefore present a promising therapeutic strategy for UC management.8,10

Several studies have demonstrated that bioactive compounds in Z. multiflora, particularly thymol and carvacrol, exhibit potent antioxidant effects by neutralizing ROS, reducing lipid peroxidation, and enhancing both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems.1,11,12 Preclinical investigations have shown that Z. multiflora administration in experimental UC models reduces oxidative stress markers, improves mucosal integrity, and alleviates colonic damage. However, despite strong laboratory evidence, clinical studies evaluating the effects of Z. multiflora on oxidative stress in UC patients remain limited.4,13

Given its antioxidant potential and traditional use for gastrointestinal health, further clinical research is needed to clarify the role of Z. multiflora in UC treatment. This study aims to assess the effects of Z. multiflora hydroalcoholic extract on oxidative stress biomarkers and UC symptoms, providing insights into its potential as a complementary therapeutic option.