Camelina sativa Oil Treatment Alleviates Castor Oil-Induced Diarrhea in ICR Mice by Regulating Intestinal Flora Composition

Abstract

Diarrhea, occurring due to intestinal flora disturbance, is potentially lethal, and its current treatments have adverse effects such as constipation and vomiting. Camelina sativa oil (CSO) is a cooking ingredient and natural remedy used in several countries; however, its pharmacological effects on intestinal health remain unknown. Here, we explored the CSO treatment effects on intestinal flora in male ICR mice with castor oil-induced diarrhea. The rate and degree of loose stools, the diarrhea index, serum inflammatory indices, fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and the diversity and abundance of intestinal flora were measured. Castor oil-administered mice experienced diarrhea, reduced intestinal flora diversity and fecal SCFAs concentrations, altered intestinal flora composition, and increased serum proinflammatory indices. In contrast, CSO treatment relieved diarrhea, improved intestinal flora composition, and increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Lachnospiraceae. Additionally, CSO significantly increased the concentrations of fecal propionic acid, valeric acid, isovaleric acid, and serum sIgA, while it reduced those of serum interleukin-17. These findings suggest that CSO could be a promising preventive agent against diarrhea.