Therapeutic effects of Camellia oleifera oil: modulation of gut microbiota and amelioration of dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis.

BACKGROUND: Camellia oleifera is a perennial tree widely cultivated in southern China. Its seed oil has traditionally been used as an edible oil and has been regarded in folk medicine as beneficial for gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory conditions. Despite its long history of use, the scientific basis for the protective effects of C. oleifera oil (CO) against colitis remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of CO in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced murine colitis model and elucidate whether modulation of the gut microbiota contributes to its anti-colitis activity. RESULTS: CO supplementation significantly alleviated DSS-induced colitis, as evidenced by reduced body weight loss, alleviated colon shortening, improved intestinal barrier integrity, decreased inflammatory mediator levels, and a lower disease activity index. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that CO partially restored gut microbial homeostasis by increasing beneficial bacterial families (Eggerthellaceae, Corynebacteriaceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Muribaculaceae) while reducing potentially harmful taxa (Helicobacteraceae, Erysipelotrichales, Desulfovibrionaceae, and Tannerellaceae). CO treatment also modulated fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles. Correlation analysis further suggested that improvements in colitis were associated with CO-induced gut microbiota remodeling. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that CO exerts protective effects against DSS-induced colitis, potentially through modulation of gut microbiota and SCFA metabolism. Although primarily consumed as an edible oil, CO exhibits health-promoting properties, supporting its potential as a functional food for gastrointestinal health. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.