ABSTRACT:
Environmental toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury are major global pollutants that disturb gut microbial homeostasis, leading to dysbiosis and contributing to oxidative stress, inflammation, and systemic toxicity. Prolonged exposure to these metals alters intestinal integrity, increases lipid peroxidation, and disrupts antioxidant defences, resulting in multi-organ dysfunction. Centella asiatica, a well-known medicinal herb rich in triterpenoids including asiaticoside and madecassoside, exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of Centella asiatica in mitigating gut dysbiosis and associated toxic manifestations induced by environmental metals. Centella asiatica enhances antioxidant capacity through Nrf2 activation, inhibits NF-?B–mediated inflammatory signalling, restores microbial diversity, and strengthens intestinal barrier function. Experimental studies have demonstrated that Centella asiatica administration reduces oxidative and inflammatory damage, improves biochemical parameters, and supports physiological recovery in metal-exposed models. Overall, Centella asiatica represents a promising natural therapeutic agent for counteracting environmental metal-induced gut dysbiosis and systemic toxicity. This review will help understand the mechanistic basis of Centella asiatica protective effects and may guide future research toward developing effective formulations and translational applications. However, further studies are needed to improve its bioavailability and validate its efficacy through standardized clinical research.